One Dos Santos heats up as the other cools down in Mexico reckoning

One Dos Santos heats up as the other cools down in Mexico reckoning [ad_1]

Jonathan dos Santos is now a key player for Villarreal.

Whether it be in one of Europe's top leagues or in Liga MX, the current season is quickly drawing to a close. And that means there is only a limited amount of time for players to impress Mexico national team manager Juan Carlos Osorio.

With spots in the Confederations Cup and Gold Cup up for grabs, let's take a look at some of the recent best and worst performances from Mexicans at home and abroad.

Warming Up

Jonathan dos Santos, MF, Villarreal (Spain)

Why he's here: Dos Santos has continued to emerge as a key player for Villarreal in recent weeks. Six days after creating the assist for a game-winning goal, the midfielder had another during Friday's 3-1 victory against Sporting Gijon.

What this means: Although the 27-year-old isn't racking up goals or attention, Dos Santos is still having a successful season abroad in Spain. A spot in El Tri's Confederations Cup roster, and also a place in the starting XI, is now within reach.

Jose Maduena, DF, Atlas (Mexico)

Why he's here: Another noteworthy performance from the right-back. On Saturday, Maduena and the rest of Atlas' defensive line were able to hold back America in a 2-1 win. The 26-year-old continues to impress with his work rate in defense and attack.

What this means: Knowing full well what a strong showing in the playoffs can provide for national team opportunities, Maduena should be motivated to take charge for Atlas in the Liguilla. It might be too late for the Confederations Cup, but a position in the Gold Cup squad is still attainable.

Jesus Duenas, MF, Tigres (Mexico)

Why he's here: During the recent 3-0 victory against Xolos, Duenas scored Tigres' first goal of the match in the 13th minute. The hard-working and versatile midfielder finished last month with two goals in April.

What this means: Thanks to his versatility and stamina, Duenas is a perfect backup player in the Confederations Cup. Despite an unlikely starting role for the 28-year-old, Duenas should be able to secure a place for June's tournament.

Oswaldo Alanis, DF, Chivas (Mexico)

Why he's here: Believe it or not, Alanis was able to score once again for Chivas. On Saturday, the 28-year-old centre-back found the net in the 1-1 draw with Leon. He now has two goals in his last two matches.

What this means: Alanis isn't one of the most exciting options in El Tri's backline, but his recent goals won't hurt his chances of joining the Confederations Cup roster. Osorio is likely keeping a close eye on the Chivas player who could be utilized this summer.

Giovani dos Santos has found life tough with the LA Galaxy this season.

Cooling Down

Giovani dos Santos, FW, L.A. Galaxy (United States)

Why he's here: Things aren't exactly going well for the other Dos Santos brother. Following major changes for the Galaxy in the offseason, Giovani has yet to find a goal or assist in his last six starts. Over the weekend, the striker could do little to avoid an underwhelming 0-0 draw with the Philadelphia Union.

What this means: Although he hasn't been able to help the recent woes for the Galaxy, Giovani has worked tirelessly in the attack this year. Whether scoring goals or not, the former Barcelona player is far too talented to miss out on the Confederations Cup.

Guillermo Ochoa, GK, Granada (Spain)

Why he's here: After losing 2-1 to Real Sociedad on Saturday, Granada are now officially relegated. During the match, there wasn't much that Ochoa could do to salvage a place in the first division for El Grana.

What this means: No blame should be put on Ochoa for the relegation, but another league season spent near the bottom of the table won't help his morale. Mexico's most skilled goalkeeper is due for a change and a good performance at the Confederations Cup should do plenty to gather some interest from alternative clubs.

Carlos Guzman, DF, Leon (Mexico)

Why he's here: Guzman has not featured in Leon's last three games. Over the weekend, the 22-year-old defender was once again left without minutes in the 1-1 draw with Chivas.

What this means: The quick and high-pressing right-back will need to wait his turn before earning a call-up for the senior national team. In spite of his promising talents, Guzman will first need to earn regular Liga MX minutes before he can catch the eye of Osorio.

Jesus Gallardo, MF, Pumas (Mexico)

Why he's here: Gallardo is another Jesus "Tecatito" Corona in the making, but in recent weeks, there has been little to celebrate about the winger, or Pumas. On Saturday, Gallardo and Co. stumbled in the 4-0 thrashing by Morelia. As for the 22-year-old, he has now gone five matches in a row without a goal or assist.

What this means: In spite of his disappointing run, it's easy to forget Gallardo's occasional moments of brilliance in 2017. Following some decent performances for El Tri over the past few months, the risk-taking Mexican might be able to sneak back into the national team during the Gold Cup.

Cesar Hernandez covers Liga MX and the Mexican national team for ESPN FC. Twitter: @cesarhfutbol.

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