Football
Tom Marshall, Mexico correspondent 6y

Chivas' Matias Almeyda eager to rest after CONCACAF Champions League win

GUADALAJARA, Mexico -- Chivas coach Matias Almeyda won his fifth trophy with the club on Wednesday night when his team overcame Toronto on penalties to win the CONCACAF Champions League.

But with players protesting the lack of bonuses and Almeyda critical of the lack of transfers in the last window, the former Argentina international said he needs a break and will be talking to the club about his future.

"We'll have 30 days' rest, which I really need," Almeyda said after the game. "I finished last season with five ulcers.

"I need to visit my family, my grandma -- who is ill in Argentina -- and my sisters, but before that, I will talk to the directors calmly."

Chivas' Champions League win makes Almeyda one of the most successful coaches the club has had, with the all-Mexican side reaching the Club World Cup for the first time.

When Almeyda joined the club, Chivas was fighting relegation and the former River Plate midfielder made headlines by saying he would "awaken the giant."

Now it stands on the brink of the Club World Cup.

"It's beautiful. When I gave my first press conference I was unknown in Mexico and it wasn't easy," Almeyda said. "I spoke that day about what I wanted to achieve here and God has helped me achieve what I promised."

Chivas, 17th in Liga MX and out of the playoffs, finishes the Clausura against Leon on Saturday.

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