Former Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Keylor Navas has officially joined Pumas UNAM in Mexico’s Liga MX. He signed a reported one-year contract. The 38-year-old Costa Rican international made the decision after a short stint in Argentina with Newell’s Old Boys. The Argentine club will receive $2 million from the deal.
Navas Sought Advice from Ramos and Herrera Before Signing
Before finalizing the move, Navas turned to familiar faces for advice. He consulted with his ex-Real Madrid and PSG teammate Sergio Ramos, as well as Costa Rica’s national team coach Miguel Herrera. Both gave strong endorsements for the transfer.
“Sergio told me a little about his experience in Mexico. I know James (Rodriguez) is also here and playing at a high level,” Navas said at a press conference. “Liga MX is growing and is very competitive, with a very good infrastructure, and I thought I’d come to a club where we can compete for titles.”
Navas and Ramos were teammates at Real Madrid, winning three UEFA Champions League titles together. They also reunited at Paris Saint-Germain, where they lifted the Ligue 1 trophy in 2022. Ramos now plays in Mexico for Monterrey, while James Rodriguez, another former Madrid teammate, is currently with Club León.
“I’m Here Eager to Give My All” — Navas Eyes Liga MX Title with Pumas
On Thursday, Navas was officially introduced by Pumas. The move is part of the club’s strategy to end their 14-year league title drought. The team has already made headlines with key additions. These include Wales midfielder Aaron Ramsey, Colombian left-back Alvaro Angulo, and Ecuadorian midfielder Pedro Vite.
“I’m here eager to give my all, to push myself, and to be on the pitch playing at my best,” said Navas. “I have the mentality to make history, to be able to win a title. I believe we can achieve those goals by working with humility.”
Move Closer to Central America Driven by National Team Goals
Navas also emphasized the importance of playing closer to home. The move to Liga MX will benefit his involvement with the Costa Rica national team, which is preparing for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
“I spoke with Miguel because he knows the league and the club well, and he told me I should sign without a doubt,” Navas said. “I’m joining a big club, and having him in the national team helps you make these decisions.”
Costa Rica, also known as Los Ticos, is part of Group C. They will face Honduras, Haiti, and Nicaragua in the upcoming qualification campaign starting in September.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for Navas in Liga MX
With elite experience from European clubs, Keylor Navas brings leadership, ambition, and grit to UNAM Pumas. His signing shows the club’s strong intention to challenge for the title. As Liga MX grows in global relevance and infrastructure, Navas’ presence adds even more prestige to the competition.
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