Keylor Navas, the legendary Costa Rican goalkeeper and three-time UEFA Champions League winner with Real Madrid, has officially joined Pumas UNAM. In his first press conference as a member of the Mexican club, Navas revealed that Costa Rica national team coach Miguel Herrera played a key role in his decision.

“I spoke with Miguel. He knows the league, the club, and he told me that without a doubt, I’d be joining a big team with ambition. He advised me to take the offer,” said Navas, highlighting Herrera’s influence in facilitating the move.

Pumas reportedly paid $2 million to release Navas from Newell’s Old Boys, where he was the starting goalkeeper. Although he had initial doubts, the veteran said he felt “affection and excitement” from the Pumas board and didn’t hesitate after that.

Why Did He Turn Down Offers from Saudi Arabia?

At 38 years old, Navas had offers from Saudi clubs, but chose to return to the Concacaf region to be closer to his family.

“After so many years away, being near home was important. Pumas offered that and a serious project,” he explained.

The former PSG and Madrid shot-stopper also leaned on insights from other players with Liga MX experience. Notably, he mentioned Sergio Ramos, now with Monterrey, who spoke highly of the infrastructure and competitive growth of the Mexican league.

Navas also expressed his excitement about competing alongside other international stars like James Rodríguez, stating that their presence shows the league’s rising potential.

What Challenge Awaits Navas at Pumas?

Efraín Juárez’s team has had a rough start to the Apertura 2025, sitting at the bottom of the table with six goals conceded in two games, the worst defense in the league. Navas arrives with the clear objective of turning that around.

“I want to be a support and an example at all times. I came to win, to demand effort, but also to grow together as a group,” said the Costa Rican, emphasizing his leadership and desire to help a young squad aiming to break a 14-year league title drought.

If registration is completed in time, Navas could debut this Friday against Querétaro at Ciudad Universitaria. Fans are hopeful that his arrival will mark a turning point and reignite Pumas’ championship ambitions.