Nacho Rivero: The Uruguayan Heart of Cruz Azul’s Midfield
In the high-stakes world of Liga MX, few foreign players have woven themselves into the fabric of a club like José Ignacio “Nacho” Rivero has with Cruz Azul. The 33-year-old Uruguayan midfielder is more than just a player for La Máquina; he’s the team’s captain, a fan favorite, and a vocal leader whose passion echoes the sentiments of the Cementera faithful. As the 2025 season unfolds, Rivero finds himself at a career crossroads, battling injuries while aiming to lead his beloved club to glory.
From scoring crucial goals in the Clásico Joven to openly dreaming of retiring in Celeste, Rivero’s journey is a testament to loyalty in modern football. This is the story of the warrior from Montevideo who became a symbol of Cruz Azul’s fighting spirit.
From Tijuana to Cementero: The Rivero Profile
Ignacio Rivero’s path to Cruz Azul wasn’t direct. After beginning his career in Uruguay, he spent time with Tijuana in Liga MX before his 2021 move to Mexico City. Since then, he has become an indispensable part of the squad, known for his work rate, tactical intelligence, and leadership on and off the pitch.
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | José Ignacio Rivero |
| Date of Birth | April 10, 1992 (Age 33) |
| Place of Birth | Montevideo, Uruguay |
| Current Club | Cruz Azul (since 2021) |
| Primary Position | Central Midfield |
| Market Value (Est.) | €2.00 million |
| Status | Team Captain, Key Player |
The 2025 Season: Leadership, Goals, and Setbacks
The current campaign has encapsulated the full Nacho Rivero experience: pivotal moments, bold leadership, and frustrating injuries. His influence was never more apparent than in the Clásico Joven against Club América, where he issued a bold warning to the rivals and helped secure a vital victory, with Gabriel Fernández also on the scoresheet.
However, the physical toll of Liga MX has been evident. Rivero has recently dealt with both a head injury and a rib problem, making him a game-time decision for crucial fixtures. Coach Nicolás Larcamón has had to carefully manage his captain’s minutes, with some fans even suggesting he be rested for lesser games to ensure fitness for the playoffs.
A Voice for the Team
True to his captain’s armband, Rivero has consistently stepped up as the team’s spokesperson. After a draw against Monterrey’s Rayados, he publicly addressed criticism, defending the team’s effort and redirecting focus to the next challenge. This willingness to shoulder responsibility has cemented his status as a true locker room leader.
More Than a Player: The Emotional Connection
What truly sets Nacho Rivero apart is his profound emotional bond with Cruz Azul. In a heartfelt interview on the ‘Shaggy Martínez’ podcast, Rivero moved fans to tears by opening up about his career and his love for the club. He revealed his dream: to retire wearing the Cruz Azul jersey, explicitly stating he wants to leave his “Tijuana past” behind and finish his story as a Cementero.
“That night…” Rivero recalled, breaking a long silence to discuss Pumas’ dramatic comeback against Cruz Azul in 2020, showing how deeply past results still affect him. His blood, as the interview segment was titled, is now Celeste.
Navigating the Future
At 33, the conversation naturally turns to what’s next. While he hasn’t officially announced retirement plans, Rivero is already laying the groundwork for his post-playing career. He remains active as a player representative and has launched his own podcast, where he interviews football figures, showcasing his deep knowledge and connections within the sport.
His immediate focus, however, remains on the pitch. The key for Cruz Azul’s success, as Rivero himself emphasized ahead of a recent Clásico, is maintaining focus and not getting carried away by emotion—a lesson from a seasoned veteran who has seen it all.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Nacho Rivero’s current injury status?
As of recent reports, Nacho Rivero has been managing multiple issues, including a rib injury that caused him to miss training and made him questionable for a weekend fixture. Earlier in the season, he also suffered a head injury. His availability is often determined close to match day.
Does Nacho Rivero want to retire at Cruz Azul?
Yes, absolutely. In emotional interviews, Rivero has repeatedly expressed his dream to end his professional playing career at Cruz Azul. He has spoken about wanting to leave his history with Club Tijuana behind and cement his legacy solely as a Cruz Azul icon.
What role does Nacho Rivero play for Cruz Azul beyond playing?
Rivero is the team captain, making him the primary leader in the locker room and the main spokesperson to the media. Off the field, he is preparing for a future in football media and management, working as a player agent and hosting his own podcast where he interviews other sports personalities.