Aaron Ramsey may finally have made his Liga MX debut In Mexico - his club coach Efraín Juárez insists patience is needed before the Wales captain shows his best.
Fifty-two days after being unveiled in Mexico City, the 34-year-old came off the bench on Sunday for his club Pumas UNAM, in a goalless draw against Puebla at the Estadio Olímpico Universitario.
It was Ramsey's first appearance since limping off with a hamstring injury in Cardiff’s win over Luton back in March.
Juárez welcomed the midfielder’s long-awaited bow, but warned it will take time for Ramsey to reach full sharpness.
“We’re happy he’s finally on the pitch. He needs to keep adapting to get fitter,” Juárez said.
“He gave us glimpses of what he can bring, but he’ll improve step by step.”
Ramsey, wearing the number 10 shirt, entered in the 62nd minute to warm applause.
READ MORE: Aaron Ramsey Gives Cardiff City The Mexican Wave
He saw only limited touches, with his most eye-catching moment a backheel attempt that failed to come off.
Ramsey’s return carries significance for Wales.
He last featured for his country in September 2024, but could come back in contention with World Cup qualifiers looming.
Wales face Kazakhstan in Astana on 4 September before a home friendly with Canada in Swansea five days later.
Manager Craig Bellamy is set to name his squad this week, with Ramsey possibly in line for a recall.
Despite injuries and even a short stint as Cardiff City’s interim manager, Ramsey has remained determined to prolong his playing career and lead Wales to one more major finals.
Back in July, when he signed for Pumas, he admitted he was “excited by the challenge” of becoming the first high-profile British player to test himself in Mexican football.
READ MORE: Aaron Ramsey Sets Ambitious Target As Wales Star's Mexico Move Confirmed Following Cardiff City Exit
For now, Juárez is urging calm as his new signing adapts to a new league, new teammates and the unique demands of playing at altitude in Mexico City.
“We’re happy he’s finally on the pitch,” he repeated. “He needs to keep adapting to get fitter. He gave us glimpses of what he can bring, but he’ll improve step by step.”
Pumas fans had hoped Ramsey’s debut would provide a spark, but instead Juárez emphasised the bigger picture.
The former Arsenal and Juventus star is expected to play a bigger role when Atlas visit next weekend.
