"El Piojo" Returns Home: Miguel Herrera Named Head Coach of Historic Atlante

Former Costa Rica coach Miguel "El Piojo" Herrera returns to Mexico's Atlante for Apertura 2026 after failing to lead La Sele to the 2026 World Cup.

By: AXL Media

Published: May 1, 2026, 7:20 AM EDT

Source: The Tico Times

A Third Stint with the "Azulgranas"

Herrera’s history with Atlante spans over three decades. He was a cornerstone of the midfield during their 1992-93 championship season and launched his managerial career with the club in 2002. His new coaching staff carries significant weight with fans, featuring Argentine goalkeeping legend Federico Vilar and Ricardo Carbajal.

The club’s return to the first division is not without controversy. Atlante, a historic 110-year-old institution relegated in 2014, secured its Liga MX spot by purchasing the franchise rights of Mazatlán FC. Under the new arrangement, Atlante will host home matches on Friday nights at the newly renovated Estadio Azteca, becoming Mexico City’s fourth top-tier club alongside América, Cruz Azul, and Pumas.

The Costa Rican "Failure"

For Costa Rican fans, Herrera's move closes a painful chapter. Appointed in January 2025 to secure a fourth consecutive World Cup berth, Herrera’s 10-month run ended in disaster.

The Record: 7 wins, 5 draws, 3 losses across 15 matches.