Editing Cruz Azul (section)

==History==

===1927–1961: Early years and amateur success ===
[[File:Carlos Garcés López.jpg|thumb|upright=.7|right|[[Carlos Garces (athlete)|Carlos Garcés López]], key figure in Cruz Azul's early connection to football during the 1920s.]]
Cruz Azul was founded in the late 1920s in Jasso, Hidalgo, where cement company [[Cooperativa La Cruz Azul, S.C.L.]] fostered a connection with football. At the time, football in Mexico was not a professionalized or lucrative activity, and many athletes worked full-time jobs alongside their sporting pursuits. [[Carlos Garces (athlete)|Carlos Garces López]], a [[Association football|footballer]], [[Sport of athletics|athlete]] and [[dentist]], employed by the cooperative, had previously played for [[Club América|América]] and was part of [[Mexico national football team|Mexico's national team]] in its first official matches in 1923,<ref>{{cite web|url = https://www.excelsior.com.mx/adrenalina/hace-95-anos-se-estreno-el-tricolor/1283646|title = Hace 95 años se estrenó el Tricolor| work=Excélsior |date = 9 December 2018|access-date = 23 June 2021|archive-date = 24 June 2021|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210624210523/https://www.excelsior.com.mx/adrenalina/hace-95-anos-se-estreno-el-tricolor/1283646|url-status = live | last1=Aldana | first1=Omar Flores }}</ref> as well as in the [[Football at the 1928 Summer Olympics – Men's team squads#Mexico|1928 Olympic squad]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rsssf.org/tablesm/mex-intres2039.html|title=Mexico - International Results Details 1920-1939|website=[[RSSSF]]|access-date=2023-02-02|archive-date=2022-07-21|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220721202734/https://www.rsssf.org/tablesm/mex-intres2039.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="auto10">{{cite web|url=https://www.mediotiempo.com/opinion/carlos-calderon/columna-carlos-calderon/america-cruz-azul-carlos-garces-anecdota-compartida|title=América y Cruz Azul. Carlos Garcés: Una anécdota compartida|work=Mediotiempo |access-date=2021-06-23|archive-date=2021-06-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210624210457/https://www.mediotiempo.com/opinion/carlos-calderon/columna-carlos-calderon/america-cruz-azul-carlos-garces-anecdota-compartida|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.olympedia.org/athletes/26541|title=Olympedia – Carlos Garcés|access-date=2021-06-23|archive-date=2021-06-25|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210625022307/https://www.olympedia.org/athletes/26541|url-status=live}}</ref>

In 1925, the cooperative initially planned to form a [[baseball]] team, reflecting the sport's popularity in the area.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.milenio.com/futbol/club-cruz-azul/cruz-azul-equipo-originalmente-beisbol-transformo|title=Cruz Azul, el equipo que originalmente era de beisbol y se transformó|date=22 May 2020|access-date=24 June 2021|archive-date=24 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210624212245/https://www.milenio.com/futbol/club-cruz-azul/cruz-azul-equipo-originalmente-beisbol-transformo|url-status=live}}</ref> However, Garces López advocated for [[Association football|football]] to become the company's official sport. After sustained lobbying, the cooperative held a referendum on 22 March 1927, in which football was selected.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://vamoscruzazul.bolavip.com/noticias/Cual-es-la-fecha-correcta-de-la-fundacion-de-Cruz-Azul-20190522-0001.html|title = ¿Cuál es la fecha correcta de la fundación de Cruz Azul?| date=22 May 2019 }}</ref> A football pitch replaced the baseball diamond, and the team was formally established two months later on 22 May 1927, with Garces López as its first manager.<ref name="auto10"/> For the following decades, Cruz Azul competed in regional tournaments, composed exclusively of company workers. The club achieved notable success in amateur competitions during the 1930s and 1940s.

In 1931, the cooperative faced financial difficulties during the [[Great Depression]]. Due to the loss of demand and production of cement and other construction materials, the company faced bankruptcy and was acquired by cement company ''La Tolteca'' on 1 March 1931, for 1 million [[Mexican peso|pesos]]. However, the liquidation of Cooperativa La Cruz Azul was anticipated by 192 workers of the company who unionized and sued the executives of the company to prevent the transfer of the property which was set for 15 October 1931.<ref name="auto1">{{cite web|url = https://isranosoychema.com/2021/01/11/historia-del-cruz-azul/|title = Historia del Cruz Azul|date = 11 January 2021|access-date = 25 June 2021|archive-date = 25 June 2021|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210625004637/https://isranosoychema.com/2021/01/11/historia-del-cruz-azul/|url-status = dead}}</ref> The government of Hidalgo ruled in favor of the workers after it was shown ''La Tolteca'' had premeditated intentions of liquidation. The workers assumed control of the industrial facilities on 2 November. On 21 May 1932, the governor of Hidalgo, Bartolomé Vargas Lugo, decreed the 192 workers of Cooperativa La Cruz Azul as collective owners of the plant, exercising [[eminent domain]]. Part of the agreement, all 192 workers who assumed responsibility of the plant agreed to pay the state of Hidalgo 1.3 million pesos over the course of 10 years. The company changed its name to ''Cooperativa Manufacturera de Cemento Portland La Cruz Azul, S.C.L.'', reestablishing itself as a [[cooperative]] on 29 January 1934.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.profmex.org/mexicoandtheworld/volume10/4fall05/La%20Cruz%20Azul.html|title=PROFMEX-Consorcio Mundial para la Investigación sobre México|access-date=2021-06-25|archive-date=2021-06-25|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210625004637/http://www.profmex.org/mexicoandtheworld/volume10/4fall05/La%20Cruz%20Azul.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The debt was settled on 2 November 1941, 10 years after workers took ownership of the plant. In celebration, Cruz Azul organized a match against [[Real Club España|Real España]], that ended in a 0–0 draw.<ref name="auto8">{{cite web|url = https://lopezdoriga.com/deportes/el-ultimo-testigo-de-la-fundacion-de-cruz-azul/|title = El último testigo de la fundación de Cruz Azul|date = 4 December 2015|access-date = 25 June 2021|archive-date = 25 June 2021|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210625004636/https://lopezdoriga.com/deportes/el-ultimo-testigo-de-la-fundacion-de-cruz-azul/|url-status = live}}</ref><ref name="auto11">{{cite web|url=https://realestatemarket.com.mx/articulos/materiales-de-la-industria/12882-cooperativa-la-cruz-azul-s-c-l|title=Cooperativa La Cruz Azul, S.C.L.|website=Real Estate Market & Lifestyle|access-date=2021-06-25|archive-date=2021-06-25|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210625004638/https://realestatemarket.com.mx/articulos/materiales-de-la-industria/12882-cooperativa-la-cruz-azul-s-c-l|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.tudn.com/futbol/liga-mx/cruz-azul-y-sus-90-anos|title = Cruz Azul y sus 90 años}}</ref> This scenario of the club's formation encourages its working-class facade.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://thesefootballtimes.co/2015/11/04/a-tale-of-one-city-mexico-city/|title=A Tale of One City: Mexico City|date=4 November 2015}}</ref><ref name="Archibold">{{cite news|author=Archibold, Randal C.|date=25 October 2013|title=Mexican Writer Mines the Soccer Field for Metaphors|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2013/10/26/world/americas/mexican-writer-mines-the-soccer-field-for-metaphors.html?_r=0:|newspaper=[[The New York Times]]|access-date=25 June 2021|archive-date=20 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150220093542/http://www.nytimes.com/2013/10/26/world/americas/mexican-writer-mines-the-soccer-field-for-metaphors.html?_r=0:|url-status=live}}</ref>

Between 1932 to 1943, Cruz Azul won 15 consecutive league titles in a local amateur league in the state of [[Hidalgo (state)|Hidalgo]] and on eight different occasions, the club represented the state of Hidalgo in national amateur tournaments. From the mid-1930s to the late 1940s, the club regularly traveled to [[Mexico City]] to face the reserve teams of [[Atlante F.C.|Atlante]], [[Necaxa]], [[C.D. Marte|Marte]], and [[Real Club España|Real España]], playing at [[Parque Necaxa]] to great success.<ref>{{cite web|url = https://www.record.com.mx/futbol-futbol-nacional-liga-mx-cruz-azul/cruz-azul-un-equipo-que-nacio-para-brillar|title = Cruz Azul, un equipo que nació para brillar|date = 14 May 2017|access-date = 23 June 2021|archive-date = 24 June 2021|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210624204209/https://www.record.com.mx/futbol-futbol-nacional-liga-mx-cruz-azul/cruz-azul-un-equipo-que-nacio-para-brillar|url-status = live}}</ref><ref name="auto9">{{cite web|url=http://cruz-azul-y-la-charla-por-el-titulo.html/|title=Cruz Azul y la charla por el título|first=Shorthand-Edgar|last=Rivas|website=Shorthand}}{{Dead link|date=March 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> By 1937, Cruz Azul had garnered a considerable following both in Hidalgo and Mexico City.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.infodeportes.com/futbol/equipo/cruzazul|title=Cruz Azul|access-date=2021-06-25|archive-date=2021-06-25|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210625004637/http://www.infodeportes.com/futbol/equipo/cruzazul|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.mexicodesconocido.com.mx/cruz-azul.html|title=Así nació el Club Deportivo Cruz Azul, "La Maquina Cementera"|date=31 May 2021|access-date=25 June 2021|archive-date=25 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210625004637/https://www.mexicodesconocido.com.mx/cruz-azul.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="auto1"/><ref name="auto9"/> During this period, [[Guillermo Álvarez Macías]] began playing as a [[midfield]]er for the team.<ref name="auto2">{{cite web|url=https://vamoscruzazul.bolavip.com/noticias/Cruz-Azul-94-anos-La-historia-del-equipo-que-nacio-grande-en-Jasso--Origen--Ascenso--Titulos--Liga-MX-20210522-0001.html|title = Es la historia de un amor como no hay otra igual: Cruz Azul cumple 94 años de gloria y grandeza| date=22 May 2021 }}</ref>

On 10 December 1953, [[Guillermo Álvarez Macías|Álvarez Macías]], who had been employed by the cooperative since childhood, was appointed general manager of Cooperativa La Cruz Azul. Initially employed as an automotive mechanic, Álvarez Macías spent over two decades at the company, rising through the ranks.<ref name="auto3">{{cite web|url=https://docplayer.es/14480631-Guillermo-alvarez-macias.html|title = Guillermo Álvarez Macías - PDF Descargar libre}}</ref> A self-proclaimed [[socialist]], Álvarez Macías laid plans to transform the cooperative into a functioning town, in hope to modernize and "share social and economic progress, to raise the standard of living of the worker and his family."<ref>{{cite web|url = https://apuntesderabona.com/cruz-azul-democracia-corinthiana/|title = Cooperativa la Cruz Azul y la Democracia Corinthiana|date = 22 August 2019|access-date = 9 June 2021|archive-date = 9 June 2021|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210609083937/https://apuntesderabona.com/cruz-azul-democracia-corinthiana/|url-status = live}}</ref> In his goal to promote social well-being among members of the cooperative, Álvarez Macías invested into cultural and recreational activities.<ref name="auto3"/> This included investing much more into the football club whose proceeds were used to provide the worker-players with better living conditions.<ref name="auto2"/>

In 1958, club [[Captain (sport)|captain]] and machinist Luis Velázquez Hernández, served as the club's ambassador to the [[Mexican Football Federation]] to lobby for official membership on the club's behalf.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.msn.com/es-mx/deportes/futbol/fallece-luis-vel%C3%A1zquez-%C3%BAltimo-testigo-del-nacimiento-profesional-de-cruz-azul/ar-BB18RYHt|title=Fallece Luis Velázquez, último testigo del nacimiento profesional de Cruz Azul|website=www.msn.com|access-date=2021-06-25|archive-date=2021-06-25|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210625105126/https://www.msn.com/es-mx/deportes/futbol/fallece-luis-vel%C3%A1zquez-%C3%BAltimo-testigo-del-nacimiento-profesional-de-cruz-azul/ar-BB18RYHt|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://juanfutbol.com/articulo/cperez/fallece-luis-velazquez-ultimo-testigo-del-nacimiento-profesional-de-cruz-azul|title=Fallece Luis Velázquez, último testigo del nacimiento profesional de Cruz Azul|date=9 September 2020|access-date=25 June 2021|archive-date=25 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210625105128/https://juanfutbol.com/articulo/cperez/fallece-luis-velazquez-ultimo-testigo-del-nacimiento-profesional-de-cruz-azul|url-status=live}}</ref> Velázquez Hernández met Paulino Sánchez in [[Mexico City]], who had ties to prominent football executives. They met with [[Joaquín Soria Terrazas]] and [[Ignacio Trelles]] to discuss membership in the federation for the club.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://vamoscruzazul.bolavip.com/noticias/Cruz-Azul-Muere-Luis-Velazquez-El-Toro-el-hombre-que-llevo-al-equipo-al-profesionalismo-20200909-0004.html|title=Murió el hombre que cambió la historia: Luis Velázquez 'El Toro', quien llevó a Cruz Azul al profesionalismo|date=10 September 2020|access-date=9 June 2021|archive-date=9 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210609083937/https://vamoscruzazul.bolavip.com/noticias/Cruz-Azul-Muere-Luis-Velazquez-El-Toro-el-hombre-que-llevo-al-equipo-al-profesionalismo-20200909-0004.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Sánchez vouched in favor of Cruz Azul, citing their continual success in the amateur and reserve tournaments. Much to the displeasure of Álvarez Macías who asserted the club was not ready for professional football.<ref name="auto8" /><ref name="auto6">{{cite web|url=https://elsiglo.mx/noticia/1744416.recuerdos-del-ayer.html|title=Recuerdos del ayer|access-date=2021-06-25|archive-date=2021-06-25|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210625054334/https://elsiglo.mx/noticia/1744416.recuerdos-del-ayer.html|url-status=dead}}</ref>

In preparation for federation membership, Paulino Sánchez assumed the position as head manager of the club. Due to regulations, teams were required to have a [[reserve team]]. ''Lafayette'', a club experiencing financial troubles located in Colonia Moctezuma, was purchased by Cruz Azul to serve as its reserve side and the acquisition was completed in 1960.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://lopezdoriga.com/deportes/la-fusion-de-equipos-que-origino-a-cruz-azul/|title=La fusión de equipos que originó a Cruz Azul|date=28 November 2015|access-date=25 June 2021|archive-date=25 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210625105128/https://lopezdoriga.com/deportes/la-fusion-de-equipos-que-origino-a-cruz-azul/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.mediotiempo.com/futbol/liga-mx/el-hombre-que-no-ascendio-con-cruz-azul-pero-siempre-estuvo-ahi|title=El hombre que no ascendió con Cruz Azul pero siempre estuvo ahí|work=Mediotiempo |date=19 April 2018|access-date=25 June 2021|archive-date=25 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210625105127/https://www.mediotiempo.com/futbol/liga-mx/el-hombre-que-no-ascendio-con-cruz-azul-pero-siempre-estuvo-ahi|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="auto5">{{cite web|url = https://elguapodelfutbol.wordpress.com/2014/01/17/cruz-azul-el-camino-a-segunda-division/|title = Cruz Azul: El camino a Segunda División|date = 17 January 2014|access-date = 25 June 2021|archive-date = 25 June 2021|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210625105128/https://elguapodelfutbol.wordpress.com/2014/01/17/cruz-azul-el-camino-a-segunda-division/|url-status = live}}</ref> Plans to construct a club stadium that complied to the standards set by the Mexican Football Federation were conceived in 1960,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.fmf.com.mx/cruz_azul.htm|title=Cruz Azul|website=www.fmf.com.mx}}</ref> and with construction beginning in 1961, [[Estadio 10 de Diciembre]] was completed in 1963.<ref name="auto4">{{cite web|url=https://www.cruzazulfc.com.mx/sedes/estadio-10-de-diciembre/#1550080188511-7d462c51-9629|title=Estadio 10 de Diciembre Primer Estadio de Cruz Azul|access-date=2021-06-25|archive-date=2020-06-25|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200625083427/https://www.cruzazulfc.com.mx/sedes/estadio-10-de-diciembre/#1550080188511-7d462c51-9629|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cruzazul.com.mx/2008/lacruzazul/1953reestructuracionSocioeconomica.aspx|title=CA - Nuestras Raíces - 1953 Reestructuración Socioeconómica|date=January 30, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160130040244/http://www.cruzazul.com.mx/2008/lacruzazul/1953reestructuracionSocioeconomica.aspx|archive-date=2016-01-30}}</ref>

Despite not possessing federation membership, the club was invited to compete in the 1960[[1961–62 Mexican Segunda División season|–]]61 edition of the ''Copa de la Segunda División de México'', a competition sanctioned by the Mexican Football Federation. The club's debut game was played on 2 April 1961, in Jasso against [[Real Zamora|Zamora]], and ended in a 2–1 victory. The second-leg, played on 9 April, resulted in a 3–3 draw. After advancing past [[Querétaro F.C.|Querétaro]], winning the tie 1–0 on aggregate and being eliminated by [[Club Universidad Nacional|Pumas UNAM]], the team's performance prompted the Mexican Football Federation to grant Cruz Azul official registration as a professional club.<ref name="auto5" /><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.mediotiempo.com/futbol/liga-mx/cruz-azul-festejar-aniversario-94-pase-octava-torneos-cortos|title=Cruz Azul quiere festejar aniversario 94 con el pase a su octava Final|work=Mediotiempo |date=22 May 2021|access-date=9 June 2021|archive-date=9 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210609213751/https://www.mediotiempo.com/futbol/liga-mx/cruz-azul-festejar-aniversario-94-pase-octava-torneos-cortos|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url = https://elguapodelfutbol.wordpress.com/2014/01/10/cruz-azul-los-origenes/|title = Cruz Azul: Los orígenes|date = 10 January 2014|access-date = 25 June 2021|archive-date = 25 June 2021|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210625105127/https://elguapodelfutbol.wordpress.com/2014/01/10/cruz-azul-los-origenes/|url-status = live}}</ref>

=== 1961–1968: Transition to professionalism ===

Cruz Azul was officially registered to compete in Mexico's [[Segunda División de México|second-tier professional league]] for the [[1961–62 Mexican Segunda División season|1961–62 season]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pressreader.com/mexico/el-universal/20130525/282428461720583|title=Álvarez, el apellido que se pinta de azul|via=PressReader|access-date=2021-06-09|archive-date=2021-06-09|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210609083936/https://www.pressreader.com/mexico/el-universal/20130525/282428461720583|url-status=live}}</ref> In the early 1960s, due to regulations by the [[Mexican Football Federation]] prohibiting the use of company names in club titles, Álvarez Macías requested the renaming of the town of Jasso, Hidalgo, to Ciudad Cooperativa Cruz Azul. This allowed the club to retain the name "Cruz Azul" without directly referencing a commercial brand, as it now referred to a geographic location.<ref name="auto12">{{cite web|url=https://bolavip.com/mx/cruzazul/Cruz-Azul--Honor-y-lealtad-a-nuestra-patria-valor-y-nobleza-en-el-deporte-frase-de-Guillermo-Alvarez-Macias-20210523-0028.html|title="Honor y lealtad a nuestra patria, valor y nobleza en el deporte", la frase de Guillermo Álvarez Macías que se convirtió en el lema de Cruz Azul|date=23 May 2021|access-date=9 June 2021|archive-date=24 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210524234223/https://bolavip.com/mx/cruzazul/Cruz-Azul--Honor-y-lealtad-a-nuestra-patria-valor-y-nobleza-en-el-deporte-frase-de-Guillermo-Alvarez-Macias-20210523-0028.html|url-status=live}}</ref>[[File:Alvarez-trophy.jpg|thumb|right|250px|[[Guillermo Álvarez Macías]] (right) holding the [[1963–64 Mexican Segunda División season|second division]] trophy in 1964.]]
In 1961, Hungarian coach [[György Marik|Jorge Marik]], who had previously managed [[Atlas F.C.|Atlas]] and [[Atlante F.C.|Atlante]], was appointed as head coach.<ref>{{cite web|url = https://isranosoychema.com/2020/12/12/jorge-marik-el-tecnico-hungaro-que-ascendio-a-cruz-azul-en-el-ano-1964/|title = Jorge Marik, el técnico húngaro que ascendió a Cruz Azul en el año 1964|date = 12 December 2020|access-date = 10 June 2021|archive-date = 10 June 2021|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210610000943/https://isranosoychema.com/2020/12/12/jorge-marik-el-tecnico-hungaro-que-ascendio-a-cruz-azul-en-el-ano-1964/|url-status = dead}}</ref> Under his management, Cruz Azul earned direct promotion to the [[Liga MX|Primera División]] by finishing first in the [[1963–64 Mexican Segunda División season|1963–64 Segunda División season]], recording 19 wins, 7 draws, and 4 losses for a total of 45 points.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rsssf.org/tablesm/mex64.html|title=Mexico 1963/64|website=[[RSSSF]]}}</ref>

Following promotion, [[Estadio 10 de Diciembre]] underwent renovations on 6 March 1964, rebuilding the wooden stands and dressing rooms in compliance with top-flight regulations.<ref name="auto4"/> Cruz Azul debuted in the Mexican Primera División during the [[1964–65 Mexican Primera División season|1964–65 season]] and finished in 8th place, with a record of 10 wins, 9 draws, and 11 losses.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rsssf.org/tablesm/mexhist.html|title=México - List of Final Tables|access-date=2023-02-02|archive-date=2015-04-02|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402011950/http://www.rsssf.com/tablesm/mexhist.html|url-status=live}}</ref> After a less successful campaign in the [[1965–66 Mexican Primera División season|1965–66 season]], where the team finished 13th out of 16 clubs, Marik departed.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rsssf.org/tablesm/mex66.html|title=Mexico 1965/66|website=[[RSSSF]]|access-date=2023-02-02|archive-date=2022-12-06|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221206212608/https://www.rsssf.org/tablesm/mex66.html|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Walter Ormeño]] served briefly as interim coach, managing three games before the club appointed [[Raúl Cárdenas]] as head coach on 20 October 1966.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.livefutbol.com/equipos/cruz-azul/1966/2/|title=Cruz Azul - Plantilla 1965/1966|date=30 September 2023|access-date=10 June 2021|archive-date=10 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210610000942/https://www.livefutbol.com/equipos/cruz-azul/1966/2/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://vamoscruzazul.bolavip.com/ligamx/El-ex-entrenador-de-la-Maquina-Walter-Ormeno-fallecio-a-los-93-anos.--20200104-0008.html|title=El ex entrenador de la Máquina, Walter Ormeño falleció a los 93 años.|first=Vamos|last=Azul|website=Vamos Cruz Azul|date=4 January 2020|access-date=10 June 2021|archive-date=10 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210610000941/https://vamoscruzazul.bolavip.com/ligamx/El-ex-entrenador-de-la-Maquina-Walter-Ormeno-fallecio-a-los-93-anos.--20200104-0008.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

===1968–1980: Golden era and domestic dominance===
[[File:Despedida de Miguel Marín.jpg|left|thumb|[[Miguel Marín (Argentine footballer)|Miguel Marín]] at his farewell match on 6 June 1981, held at the [[Estadio Azteca]] against [[C.D. Guadalajara|Guadalajara]]. Regarded as one of Cruz Azul's greatest icons of the 1970s, Marín was instrumental in the club's golden era success.]]
During the [[1968–69 Mexican Primera División season|1968–69 season]], under the direction of Cárdenas, Cruz Azul won its first [[1968–69 Copa México|Copa México]] title, first [[1968–69 Mexican Primera División season|Primera División]] championship, and first [[1969 CONCACAF Champions' Cup|CONCACAF Champions' Cup]].<ref name="RC">{{cite web|url=https://mexico.as.com/mexico/2018/03/06/futbol/1520295108_196896.html|title=¿Quién fue Raúl Cárdenas? El gran entrenador del Cruz Azul|date=5 March 2018|access-date=10 June 2021|archive-date=10 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210610000948/https://mexico.as.com/mexico/2018/03/06/futbol/1520295108_196896.html|url-status=live}}</ref> This achievement made the club the first team in both Mexico and the [[CONCACAF]] region to win all three major titles—commonly referred to as a [[Treble (association football)#Continental trebles|continental treble]]—within four years of joining the top division.<ref name="auto7">{{cite web|url=https://www.goal.com/en-us/news/114/mexico/2013/04/11/3896920/tom-marshall-what-now-for-copa-mx-winner-cruz-azul|title=Tom Marshall: What now for Copa MX winner Cruz Azul? &#124; Goal.com|website=www.goal.com|access-date=2021-06-06|archive-date=2021-02-01|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210201173507/https://www.goal.com/en-us/news/114/mexico/2013/04/11/3896920/tom-marshall-what-now-for-copa-mx-winner-cruz-azul|url-status=live}}</ref>

In the [[1969–70 Mexican Primera División season|1969–70 Primera División season]], Cruz Azul finished second on the general standings.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rsssf.org/tablesm/mex6970.html|title=Mexico 1969/70|access-date=2023-02-02|archive-date=2023-09-23|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230923135705/https://www.rsssf.org/tablesm/mex6970.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
Later that year, on 15 December, the club was awarded the [[1970 CONCACAF Champions' Cup]] after [[Deportivo Saprissa|Saprissa]] and [[S.V. Transvaal|Transvaal]] withdrew from the tournament's second phase due to financial constraints.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rsssf.org/tablesc/cacups70.html|title=Central American Club Competitions 1970|website=[[RSSSF]]|access-date=2023-02-02|archive-date=2023-02-07|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230207125710/https://www.rsssf.org/tablesc/cacups70.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://vamoscruzazul.bolavip.com/noticias/Cruz-Azul-fue-campeon-de-la-Concacaf-en-1970-sin-jugar-20200319-0001.html|title=Cruz Azul fue campeón de la Concacaf en 1970… ¡sin jugar!|date=19 March 2020|access-date=23 June 2021|archive-date=24 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210624203002/https://vamoscruzazul.bolavip.com/noticias/Cruz-Azul-fue-campeon-de-la-Concacaf-en-1970-sin-jugar-20200319-0001.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

Between 1970 and 1980, Cruz Azul established an era of dominance by winning six league titles—four under Cárdenas and two under [[Ignacio Trelles|Ignacio Trelles]]—becoming one of the most successful Mexican clubs of the decade. Led by legendary goalkeeper [[Miguel Marín (Argentine footballer)|Miguel Marín]], who made his final appearance for the club in a testimonial match against [[C.D. Guadalajara|Guadalajara]] in June 1981,<ref>{{Cite web |title=La despedida de Miguel Marín {{!}} TUDN Fútbol {{!}} TUDN |url=https://www.tudn.com/futbol/la-despedida-de-miguel-marin-video |access-date=25 May 2025 |website=www.tudn.com |language=es}}</ref> the team earned the nickname ''La Máquina'' ("The Machine") in reference to its consistent performances and playing style.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |last=Spindola |first=Ana Patricia |date=28 April 2022 |title=¿Por qué le dicen la Máquina a Cruz Azul y desde cuándo surgió el apodo? |url=https://www.debate.com.mx/deportes/Por-que-le-dicen-la-Maquina-a-Cruz-Azul-y-desde-cuando-surgio-el-apodo-20220428-0182.html |access-date=12 May 2025 |website=debate |language=es}}</ref>

On 18 December 1976, long-serving club president [[Guillermo Álvarez Macías]] died of a heart attack at the age of 56 while awaiting a meeting with [[José López Portillo|President José López Portillo]].<ref name="auto12"/><ref>{{cite web|url=https://vamoscruzazul.bolavip.com/noticias/Recuerdo-de-Guillermo-Alvarez-Macias-a-42-anos-de-su-fallecimiento-20181218-0006.html|title = Recuerdo de Guillermo Álvarez Macías a 42 años de su fallecimiento| date=18 December 2018 }}</ref>

=== 1981–1997: First major drought and struggles ===
[[File: Cruz azul.jpg|thumb|Cruz Azul's [[1993–94 Mexican Primera División season|1993–94 season]] squad.]]
Throughout the 1980s, Cruz Azul consistently qualified for the league playoffs but did not win another league championship, beginning a 17-year title drought despite continued investment and a strong squad. In 1988, [[Billy Álvarez|Guillermo Héctor Álvarez Cuevas]], the son of the late Guillermo Álvarez Macías, became general manager of [[Cooperativa La Cruz Azul, S.C.L.|Cooperativa La Cruz Azul]] and president of the club.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.eluniversal.com.mx/universal-deportes/futbol/guillermo-alvarez-cuevas-y-su-gestion-en-cruz-azul|title = Guillermo Álvarez Cuevas y su gestión en Cruz Azul|date = August 2020}}</ref> Under his leadership, Cruz Azul pursued high-profile signings, including striker [[Carlos Hermosillo]], who had come through [[Club América|América]]’s youth system and played for the senior team earlier in his career before joining Cruz Azul in 1991.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.fifa.com/news/hermosillo-alongside-tri-best-1210013|title=Welcome to FIFA.com News - Hermosillo alongside El Tri's best |date=June 9, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210609055027/https://www.fifa.com/news/hermosillo-alongside-tri-best-1210013 |archive-date=2021-06-09 }}</ref> Initially met with skepticism, Hermosillo became a leading figure in the team, finishing as the league's top scorer in three consecutive seasons: [[1993–94 Mexican Primera División season|1993–94]] (27 goals), [[1994–95 Mexican Primera División season|1994–95]] (35 goals), and [[1995–96 Mexican Primera División season|1995–96]] (26 goals).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.broadwayworld.com/bwwtv/article/Soccer-Star-Carlos-Hermosillo-Joins-DEPORTES-TELEMUNDO-20140306|title=Soccer Star Carlos Hermosillo Joins DEPORTES TELEMUNDO|access-date=2021-06-09|archive-date=2021-06-09|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210609055028/https://www.broadwayworld.com/bwwtv/article/Soccer-Star-Carlos-Hermosillo-Joins-DEPORTES-TELEMUNDO-20140306|url-status=live}}</ref> In the [[1994–95 Mexican Primera División season|1994–95 season]], the club finished third in the league's overall standings and reached their first league final in six years, where they were defeated 3–1 on aggregate by [[Club Necaxa|Necaxa]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rsssf.org/tablesm/mex95.html|title=Mexico 1994/95|website=[[RSSSF]]|access-date=2023-02-02|archive-date=2022-07-17|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220717065402/https://www.rsssf.org/tablesm/mex95.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

=== 1996–1997: Revival and second treble ===
On 20 July 1996, Cruz Azul ended a 16-year title drought by winning the [[1996 CONCACAF Champions' Cup]], held in [[Guatemala City]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rsssf.org/tablesc/cacups96.html|title=Central American Club Competitions 1996|website=[[RSSSF]]}}</ref> Under manager [[Víctor Manuel Vucetich]], the team finished first in the [[round-robin tournament]], including an 11–0 victory over [[Seattle Sounders (1994–2008)|Seattle Sounders]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.sounderatheart.com/2018/3/14/17118592/when-the-sounders-lost-eleven-zero|title=View to a Kill|date=14 March 2018|access-date=6 June 2021|archive-date=6 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210606075329/https://www.sounderatheart.com/2018/3/14/17118592/when-the-sounders-lost-eleven-zero|url-status=dead}}</ref> That same season, Cruz Azul also won the [[1996–97 Copa México]], defeating [[Toros Neza]] 2–0 at [[Estadio 10 de Diciembre]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rsssf.org/tablesm/mex97.html|title=Mexico 1996/97|website=[[RSSSF]]|access-date=2023-02-02|archive-date=2022-12-09|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221209062725/https://www.rsssf.org/tablesm/mex97.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

[[File:Cruz azul 1997.jpg|thumb|Cruz Azul before facing [[Club León|León]] in the second-leg of the [[1997–98 Mexican Primera División season|Invierno 1997]] final on 7 December 1997.|left]]
In 1997, now managed by [[Luis Fernando Tena]], the club won the [[1997 CONCACAF Champions' Cup|CONCACAF Champions' Cup]] for a second consecutive year, defeating [[LA Galaxy]] in the final on 24 August.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rsssf.org/tablesc/cacups97.html|title=Central American Club Competitions 1997|website=[[RSSSF]]|access-date=2023-02-02|archive-date=2022-07-17|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220717065246/https://www.rsssf.org/tablesc/cacups97.html|url-status=live}}</ref> 
On 7 December 1997, Cruz Azul claimed the [[1997–98 Mexican Primera División season|Invierno 1997]] league title, defeating [[Club León|León]] in the final through a [[golden goal]], ending a 17-year league title drought<ref name=":2" /> and securing the club's second [[Treble (association football)|continental treble]].<ref name=":1" /> The decisive moment came during extra time in the second-leg, when León goalkeeper [[Ángel Comizzo]] fouled striker [[Carlos Hermosillo]] inside the penalty area in the 15th minute.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.goal.com/es-mx/noticias/por-que-pateo-comizzo-hermosillo-que-fue/a7khzcng1euf1jl6af1e7k9ps|title=¿Por qué pateó Comizzo a Hermosillo y qué fue de él después de eso? &#124; Goal.com|website=www.goal.com|access-date=2021-06-28|archive-date=2021-06-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210628095216/https://www.goal.com/es-mx/noticias/por-que-pateo-comizzo-hermosillo-que-fue/a7khzcng1euf1jl6af1e7k9ps|url-status=live}}</ref> Referee [[Arturo Brizio Carter|Arturo Brizio]] awarded a penalty kick to Cruz Azul, though Comizzo remained on the field. Hermosillo, visibly injured from the incident, converted the penalty, securing the title for Cruz Azul under the golden goal rule.<ref name="auto7" /><ref name=":2">{{cite web|url = https://www.marca.com/claro-mx/futbol/liga-mx/2020/11/30/5fc5754d46163f90578b460d.html|title = ¿Cómo fue la final Cruz Azul vs León de 1997? Alineaciones ida y vuelta y marcador global| work=MARCA Claro México |date = 30 November 2020|access-date = 6 June 2021|archive-date = 6 June 2021|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210606075327/https://www.marca.com/claro-mx/futbol/liga-mx/2020/11/30/5fc5754d46163f90578b460d.html|url-status = live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://bolavip.com/concacaf/Cruz-Azul-Leon-Por-que-Brizio-no-expulso-a-Comizzo-tras-la-patada-a-Hermosillo-en-la-Final-del-Invierno-97-20200605-0034.html|title=La verdadera historia: ¿Por qué Brizio no expulsó a Comizzo tras la patada a Hermosillo en la Final del Invierno 97?|date=25 February 2021|access-date=28 June 2021|archive-date=28 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210628095219/https://bolavip.com/concacaf/Cruz-Azul-Leon-Por-que-Brizio-no-expulso-a-Comizzo-tras-la-patada-a-Hermosillo-en-la-Final-del-Invierno-97-20200605-0034.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

===1998–2013: Second drought and international pursuits===
{{Main|2001 Copa Libertadores|2001 Copa Libertadores finals}}

In 2001, Cruz Azul qualified for the [[Copa Libertadores]] through the [[Pre-Libertadores tournament|Copa Pre-Libertadores]], a playoff tournament involving Mexican and Venezuelan clubs. Placed in Group 7 alongside [[São Caetano Futebol|São Caetano]], [[Defensor Sporting]], and [[C.D. Olmedo|Olmedo]], finishing top of the group with 13 points.<ref>{{cite web |title=Cruz Azul Fixtures & Results 2000/2001 |url=https://www.worldfootball.net/teams/cruz-azul/2001/3/ |publisher=worldfootball.net |access-date=2025-04-28}}</ref> 

In the round of 16, Cruz Azul overcame a 2–1 first-leg loss to [[Cerro Porteño]] with a 3–1 victory at home, advancing on aggregate. The quarter-finals saw the club face [[Club Atlético River Plate|River Plate]], securing a 0–0 draw in [[Buenos Aires]] and winning 3–0 in [[Mexico City]]. In the semi-finals against [[Rosario Central]], Cruz Azul won the first-leg 2–0 at home and drew 3–3 in [[Rosario]] to progress to the final.<ref>{{cite web |title=Copa Libertadores 2001 |url=https://www.worldfootball.net/competition/copa-libertadores-2001/ |publisher=worldfootball.net |access-date=2025-04-28}}</ref>

The final was played against [[Boca Juniors]]. After a 1–0 defeat in the first-leg at [[Estadio Azteca]], Cruz Azul won the return leg 1–0 at [[La Bombonera]], with [[Francisco Palencia]] scoring the goal that leveled the aggregate score. The title was decided by a [[penalty shootout]], which Boca Juniors won. Despite the loss, Cruz Azul became the first Mexican club to reach a Copa Libertadores final, a performance that received widespread recognition in both Mexico and [[South America]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Cruz Azul - Boca Juniors 0:1 (Copa Libertadores 2001, Final)|url=https://www.worldfootball.net/competition/copa-libertadores-2001/ |publisher=worldfootball.net |access-date=2025-04-28}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=A 20 años de distancia, el Cruz Azul de la Copa Libertadores 2001|url=https://www.tudn.com/juegos-olimpicos/cruz-azul-de-la-copa-libertadores-2001-jugadores-y-rivales |publisher=tudn.com |access-date=2025-04-28}}</ref>

====2005 abduction of Rubén Omar Romano====

On 16 July 2005, Cruz Azul manager [[Rubén Omar Romano]] was abducted by five men after leaving a pre-season training session. The assailants used two stolen vehicles to block his car, and a ransom note was later delivered to his family demanding $500,000.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2005/07/21/world/americas/coach-abducted-adding-focus-to-common-mexican-dread.html|title = Coach Abducted, Adding Focus to Common Mexican Dread|newspaper = The New York Times|date = 21 July 2005|last1 = Mckinley|first1 = James C. Jr.}}</ref> During Romano's absence, assistant coach Isaac Mizrahi assumed coaching responsibilities.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://vamoscruzazul.bolavip.com/noticias/Ruben-Omar-Romano-revela-como-se-rompio-su-relacion-con-Isaac-Mizrahi-despues-de-su-salida-de-Cruz-Azul-20200507-0006.html|title=Rubén Omar Romano revela cómo se rompió su relación con Isaac Mizrahi después de su salida de Cruz Azul|first=Vamos|last=Azul|website=Vamos Cruz Azul|date=7 May 2020 }}</ref>

After 65 days in captivity, Romano was located and safely rescued during a federal raid on a residence where he was being held. Authorities arrested seven individuals connected to the abduction, reportedly acting under the orders of convicted kidnapper José Luis Canchola.<ref name="auto">{{cite web |url=https://www.ocregister.com/2005/09/23/raid-ends-kidnap-for-coach/ |title=Raid ends kidnap for coach |date=23 September 2005 |access-date=2 June 2021 |archive-date=2 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210602220317/https://www.ocregister.com/2005/09/23/raid-ends-kidnap-for-coach/ |url-status=live}}</ref>

While Romano was still in captivity, Cruz Azul chose not to renew his contract beyond the [[Primera División de México Apertura 2005|Apertura 2005 tournament]] and formally offered the head coaching position to Mizrahi.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://vamoscruzazul.bolavip.com/noticias/Isaac-Mizrahi-recuerda-cuando-asumio-la-banca-de-Cruz-Azul-tras-el-secuestro-de-Ruben-Omar-Romano-hace-15-anos-20200719-0007.html|title=Isaac Mizrahi recuerda cuando asumió la banca de Cruz Azul tras el secuestro de Rubén Omar Romano hace 15 años|date=19 July 2020|access-date=2 June 2021|archive-date=2 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210602220317/https://vamoscruzazul.bolavip.com/noticias/Isaac-Mizrahi-recuerda-cuando-asumio-la-banca-de-Cruz-Azul-tras-el-secuestro-de-Ruben-Omar-Romano-hace-15-anos-20200719-0007.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Romano later expressed disappointment over the club's decision and stated that the incident affected his personal relationship with Mizrahi.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.milenio.com/deportes/futbol/ruben-omar-romano-futbol-quitado-amistades-tecnico|title=Rubén Omar Romano: El futbol le ha quitado amistades al técnico|website=www.milenio.com|date=5 June 2020|access-date=2 June 2021|archive-date=2 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210602215204/https://www.milenio.com/deportes/futbol/ruben-omar-romano-futbol-quitado-amistades-tecnico|url-status=live}}</ref>

====2008–2013: Series of runner-ups and last-minute losses====
Between 2008 and 2013, Cruz Azul was regularly considered a title contender due to its financial resources and competitive squads. However, during this period, the club reached multiple domestic and international finals without securing a major title.<ref name=":0">{{cite web |date=30 May 2021 |title=La "maldición" del equipo de fútbol mexicano Cruz Azul |url=https://cnnespanol.cnn.com/2021/05/30/futbol-maldicion-del-cruz-azul-explicada-orix/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709183601/https://cnnespanol.cnn.com/2021/05/30/futbol-maldicion-del-cruz-azul-explicada-orix/ |archive-date=9 July 2021 |access-date=8 July 2021 |website=CNN |language=es}}</ref> Several of these losses involved late equalizers or narrow margins, leading to media and fan narratives about the club's inability to close matches. The term '''''cruzazulear'''''—meaning to lose a match despite having a clear advantage—gained traction around 2013 and was formally recognized by the [[Royal Spanish Academy]] in 2020.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Marshall |first1=Tom |title=Think your team is bad? Cruz Azul's name has literally come to define failure, as a verb and in song |url=https://www.espn.com/soccer/blog-the-toe-poke/story/4266769/think-your-team-is-bad-cruz-azuls-name-has-literally-come-to-define-failureas-a-verb-and-in-song |website=ESPN |date=29 December 2020 |access-date=24 July 2021 |archive-date=24 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210924004326/https://www.espn.com/soccer/blog-the-toe-poke/story/4266769/think-your-team-is-bad-cruz-azuls-name-has-literally-come-to-define-failureas-a-verb-and-in-song |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Luis E. |first1=Morales |title=Cruzazulear, según la Real Academia Española |url=https://teayudoacomprar.com/cruzazulear-segun-la-real-academia-espanola/ |website=Te ayudo a comprar |date=28 April 2020 |access-date=24 July 2021 |archive-date=24 July 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210724014042/https://teayudoacomprar.com/cruzazulear-segun-la-real-academia-espanola/ |url-status=usurped }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rae.es/observatorio-de-palabras/cruzazulear|title=Cruzazulear|access-date=2021-07-24|archive-date=2021-07-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210728105502/https://www.rae.es/observatorio-de-palabras/cruzazulear|url-status=live}}</ref>

In the [[Primera División de México Clausura 2008|Clausura 2008 season]], Cruz Azul finished second in the regular season and advanced to the [[Primera División de México Clausura 2008#Finals|final]], where they lost 3–2 on aggregate to [[Santos Laguna]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=1 June 2008 |title=Santos vs. Cruz Azul - Football Match Summary |url=https://www.espn.com/soccer/match/_/gameId/241494 |access-date=2022-09-04 |website=ESPN.com |language=en |archive-date=2022-09-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220904191149/https://www.espn.com/soccer/match/_/gameId/241494 |url-status=live }}</ref> The following tournament, [[Primera División de México Apertura 2008|Apertura 2008]], saw the club reach another final after defeating [[Club Universidad Nacional|Pumas UNAM]] and [[Atlante F.C.|Atlante]] in the playoffs. In the final against [[Deportivo Toluca F.C.|Toluca]], Cruz Azul lost the first-leg 2–0 but leveled the aggregate with a 2–0 win in the return leg. The match went to penalties, with Toluca winning the shootout 7–6.<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 December 2008 |title=Tras dramáticos penales ¡Toluca Campeón del A2008! |url=https://www.mediotiempo.com/futbol/liga-mx/tras-dramaticos-penales-toluca-campeon-del-a2008 |access-date= |website=Mediotiempo |language=es-MX |archive-date=4 September 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220904191150/https://www.mediotiempo.com/futbol/liga-mx/tras-dramaticos-penales-toluca-campeon-del-a2008 |url-status=live }}</ref>

{{football squad on pitch|align=left|clear=none
| GK = '''[[Alfonso Blanco (footballer)|Blanco]]'''
| RB = '''[[Carlos Bonet|Bonet]]'''
| RCB = '''[[Joaquín Beltrán|Beltrán (c)]]'''
| LCB = '''[[Ronald Raldes|Raldes]]'''
| LB = '''[[Fausto Pinto|Pinto]]'''
| DM = '''[[Gabino Velasco|Velasco]]'''
| RCM = '''[[César Villaluz|Villaluz]]'''
| LCM = '''[[Alejandro Vela|Vela]]'''
| AM = '''[[Édgar Andrade|Andrade]]'''
| RCF = '''[[Luis Ángel Landín|Landín]]'''
| CF  = '''[[Pablo Zeballos|Zeballos]]'''
| caption = [[2009 CONCACAF Champions League final]] first-leg starting lineup
}}
Cruz Azul's participation in the [[2008–09 CONCACAF Champions League]] ended in the [[2009 CONCACAF Champions League final|final]], where they lost 2–0 on aggregate to Atlante. En route to the final, they had eliminated Pumas UNAM and [[Puerto Rico Islanders]].<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=12 May 2009 |title=Sella Atlante clasificación al Mundial de Clubes, elimina a Cruz Azul |url=https://wradio.com.mx/radio/2009/05/12/deportes/1242187440_810890.html |access-date=2022-09-04 |website=W Radio México |language=es-mx |archive-date=2022-09-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220904191149/https://wradio.com.mx/radio/2009/05/12/deportes/1242187440_810890.html |url-status=live }}</ref>

In the [[Primera División de México Clausura 2009|Clausura 2009 tournament]], the club finished last in the league, recording only 13 points in 17 matches. Manager [[Benjamín Galindo]] was dismissed near the end of the season and was replaced by [[Robert Siboldi|Robert Dante Siboldi]] on an interim basis.<ref>{{Cite web |date=6 May 2009 |title=Cruz Azul names ex-keeper Siboldi new coach |url=https://www.si.com/soccer/2009/05/06/cruz-azul?utm_source=chatgpt.com |access-date=11 May 2025 |website=SI}}</ref>

For the [[2009–10 Mexican Primera División season#Torneo Apertura|Apertura 2009]], Cruz Azul appointed [[Enrique Meza]] as head coach and reinforced the squad with key signings, including goalkeeper [[José de Jesús Corona]] and striker [[Emanuel Villa]]. The team finished second in the regular season and reached the final after playoff wins over [[Club Puebla|Puebla]] and [[Atlético Morelia|Morelia]]. Despite Villa finishing as the league's top scorer with 17 goals, Cruz Azul lost the [[Primera División de México Apertura 2009 Liguilla Final|final]] to [[C.F. Monterrey|Monterrey]] 6–4 on aggregate, marking their third league final defeat in less than two years.<ref>{{Cite news |date=14 December 2009 |title=Monterrey conquista tercera corona en México |language=es |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/deportes-futbol-mexico-final-idLTASIE5BD01C20091214 |access-date=2022-09-04 |archive-date=2022-09-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220904191149/https://www.reuters.com/article/deportes-futbol-mexico-final-idLTASIE5BD01C20091214 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=14 December 2009 |title=Monterrey win Mexican championship |url=https://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/monterrey-win-mexican-championship |access-date= |website=fourfourtwo.com |language=en |archive-date=4 September 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220904191151/https://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/monterrey-win-mexican-championship |url-status=live }}</ref>

[[File:Cruzazul-vsherediano.jpg|right|thumb|Cruz Azul against [[C.S. Herediano|Herediano]] in the [[2009–10 CONCACAF Champions League]].]]
In the [[2009–10 CONCACAF Champions League]], Cruz Azul finished first in Group C and advanced to the knockout stage.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bueno |first=Luis |date=23 October 2009 |title=Our Champions League grows up |url=https://www.si.com/more-sports/2009/10/23/concacaf-champions?utm_source=chatgpt.com |access-date=11 May 2025 |website=SI}}</ref> The team defeated [[C.D. Árabe Unido|Árabe Unido]] 4–0 on aggregate in the quarter-finals and overcame [[Club Universidad Nacional|Pumas UNAM]] in the semi-finals, losing the first-leg 1–0 but winning the return leg 5–1 at [[Estadio Ciudad de los Deportes|Estadio Azul]]. In the final against [[C.F. Pachuca|Pachuca]], Cruz Azul won the first-leg 2–1 at home but lost the second-leg 1–0, conceding a goal in stoppage time. With the aggregate tied 2–2, Pachuca was awarded the championship based on the away goals rule, denying Cruz Azul a place in the [[2010 FIFA Club World Cup]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=29 April 2010 |title=Concacaf Champions League 2009/10: Pachuca campeón |url=https://arogeraldes.blogspot.com/2009/08/concacaf-champions-league-200910.html |access-date=11 May 2025 |website=Aro Geraldes |language=es}}</ref>

In April 2012, the club officially changed its name from '''Club Deportivo, Social y Cultural Cruz Azul, A.C.''' to '''Cruz Azul Fútbol Club, A.C.'''.<ref>{{cite web |title=Cruz Azul cambia de nombre |url=https://www.espn.com.ar/noticias/nota?s=mex&id=1500688&type=story |publisher=espn.com.ar |date=10 April 2012 |access-date=2025-04-28|language=es }}</ref>

During the Clausura 2013 season, Cruz Azul initially struggled in league play but gained momentum after defeating [[Club América|América]] in the [[Clausura 2013 Copa MX|Copa MX]] semi-finals and later winning the tournament by defeating [[Atlante F.C.|Atlante]] in the final.<ref>{{Cite web |date=15 October 2018 |title=Cruz Azul campeón de Copa MX en 2013: el título previo a la 'Cruzazuleada' en Liga MX |url=https://www.tudn.com/futbol/copa-mx/cruz-azul-campeon-de-copa-mx-en-2013-el-titulo-previo-a-la-cruzazuleada-en-liga-mx-fotos |access-date=11 May 2025 |website=TUDN |language=es}}</ref> Following their cup victory, the club's league form improved, and they qualified for the playoffs as one of the title contenders. In the final of the [[2012–13 Liga MX season#Torneo Clausura|Clausura 2013 tournament]], Cruz Azul again faced América in a notable edition of the ''[[Clásico Joven]]''. After winning the first-leg and leading 2–0 on aggregate late into the second-leg, América equalized with goals in the 89th minute by [[Aquivaldo Mosquera]] and in the 93rd minute by goalkeeper [[Moisés Muñoz]]. América went on to win the championship 4–2 in a penalty shootout.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Rosas |first=Luis Óscar |date=3 December 2024 |title=La Final del Clausura 2013, el peor recuerdo que tiene Cruz Azul jugando contra América |url=https://www.tudn.com/futbol/liga-mx/cruz-azul-vs-america-la-final-del-clausura-2013-el-peor-recuerdo-para-la-maquina |access-date=11 May 2025 |website=TUDN |language=es}}</ref>

===2014–2020: Revival and modern challenges===
On 23 April 2014, Cruz Azul won its sixth [[2013–14 CONCACAF Champions League|CONCACAF Champions League]] title after defeating [[Deportivo Toluca F.C.|Toluca]], securing the club's first trophy in 17 years.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mediotiempo.com/futbol/internacional/cronicas/2014/04/23/cruz-azul-campeon-de-concacaf_53363|title=Cruz Azul, Campeón de CONCACAF|work=MedioTiempo |date=24 April 2014|access-date=21 July 2017|archive-date=17 October 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181017145413/http://www.mediotiempo.com/futbol/internacional/cronicas/2014/04/23/cruz-azul-campeon-de-concacaf_53363|url-status=live}}</ref> The victory qualified Cruz Azul for the [[2014 FIFA Club World Cup]], where the team finished in fourth place.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://es.fifa.com/clubworldcup/matches/round=259703/match=300298900/index.html|title=Copa Mundial de Clubes de la FIFA Marruecos 2014 - Cruz Azul-Auckland City FC - Resumen |date=March 29, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150329233438/http://es.fifa.com/clubworldcup/matches/round=259703/match=300298900/index.html |archive-date=2015-03-29 }}</ref>

Between the [[2014–15 Liga MX season#Torneo Apertura|Apertura 2014]] and [[2016–17 Liga MX season#Torneo Clausura|Clausura 2017]] tournaments, Cruz Azul failed to qualify for the ''liguilla'' playoffs for six consecutive seasons.<ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.record.com.mx/futbol-futbol-nacional-liga-mx-cruz-azul/cruz-azul-queda-fuera-de-liguilla-por-sexto-torneo|title = Cruz Azul queda fuera de Liguilla por sexto torneo consecutivo|date = 29 April 2017|access-date = 21 July 2017|archive-date = 23 August 2018|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180823120351/http://www.record.com.mx/futbol-futbol-nacional-liga-mx-cruz-azul/cruz-azul-queda-fuera-de-liguilla-por-sexto-torneo|url-status = live}}</ref> The club returned to the playoffs in the [[2017–18 Liga MX season#Torneo Apertura|Apertura 2017]] but was eliminated in the quarter-finals by [[Club América|América]] on aggregate after a 0–0 draw, with América advancing due to [[Seeding (sports)#Liga MX|higher seeding]]. On 27 November 2017, the club announced that manager [[Paco Jémez]] would not renew his contract for the following season.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://cruzazulfc.com.mx/2017/11/27/jemez-no-renovara-para-el-clausura-2018/ |title=Jémez no renovará para el Clausura 2018 |trans-title=Jémez will not renew for the Clausura 2018 |date=27 November 2017 |access-date=27 November 2017 |language=es |archive-date=15 February 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190215092825/http://cruzazulfc.com.mx/2017/11/27/jemez-no-renovara-para-el-clausura-2018/ |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://espndeportes.espn.com/futbol/mexico/nota/_/id/3743214/paco-jemez-deja-de-ser-tecnico-de-cruz-azul |title=Paco Jémez deja de ser técnico de Cruz Azul |trans-title=Paco Jémez is no longer the coach of Cruz Azul |date=27 November 2017 |access-date=27 November 2017 |language=es |archive-date=25 July 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200725075221/https://espndeportes.espn.com/futbol/mexico/nota/_/id/3743214/paco-jemez-deja-de-ser-tecnico-de-cruz-azul |url-status=live }}</ref>

In the [[2017–18 Liga MX season#Torneo Clausura|Clausura 2018]], Cruz Azul finished in 12th place and did not qualify for the playoffs. The club also placed last in its [[Clausura 2018 Copa MX|Copa MX]] group.
On 7 May 2018, sporting director [[Eduardo de la Torre]] left the club and was replaced by [[Ricardo Peláez]], formerly of América.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://cruzazulfc.com.mx/2018/05/07/termina-la-relacion-laboral/|title=Termina la relación laboral con Eduardo de La Torre|trans-title=End of working relationship with Eduardo de La Torre|language=es|date=7 May 2018|access-date=13 May 2018|archive-date=2 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180702122325/http://cruzazulfc.com.mx/2018/05/07/termina-la-relacion-laboral/|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://cruzazulfc.com.mx/2018/05/07/bienvenido-ricardo-pelaez-linares/|title=Bienvenido Ricardo Peláez Linares|trans-title=Welcome Ricardo Peláez Linares|language=es|date=7 May 2018|access-date=13 May 2018|archive-date=18 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180718082243/http://cruzazulfc.com.mx/2018/05/07/bienvenido-ricardo-pelaez-linares/|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://espndeportes.espn.com/futbol/mexico/nota/_/id/4286118/pelaez-llega-a-cruz-azul-con-deseo-de-ser-campeon|title=Peláez llega a Cruz Azul con deseo de ser campeón|trans-title=Peláez arrives at Cruz Azul with the hope to become champion|date=9 May 2018|access-date=13 May 2018|archive-date=4 June 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190604070652/http://espndeportes.espn.com/futbol/mexico/nota/_/id/4286118/pelaez-llega-a-cruz-azul-con-deseo-de-ser-campeon|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://laaficion.milenio.com/cruzazul/turno-ricardo-pelaez-cruz-azul-retos-apertura-2018-liga-mx_0_1171682870.html|title=Los retos de Ricardo Peláez en Cruz Azul|trans-title=The challenges for Ricardo Peláez at Cruz Azul|language=es|date=8 May 2018|access-date=13 May 2018|archive-date=14 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180514141713/http://laaficion.milenio.com/cruzazul/turno-ricardo-pelaez-cruz-azul-retos-apertura-2018-liga-mx_0_1171682870.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Later that year, Cruz Azul won the [[Apertura 2018 Copa MX]], defeating [[C.F. Monterrey|Monterrey]] 2–0 in the [[Apertura 2018 Copa MX final|final]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Cruz Azul beats Monterrey to lift Copa MX|url=https://www.goal.com/en-us/news/cruz-azul-beats-monterrey-to-lift-copa-mx/r90llckig8bx19soptqix8xxo|first=Jon|last=Arnold|work=Goal|date=1 November 2018|access-date=2 November 2018|archive-date=19 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190419122607/https://www.goal.com/en-us/news/cruz-azul-beats-monterrey-to-lift-copa-mx/r90llckig8bx19soptqix8xxo|url-status=live}}</ref> In the same [[2018–19 Liga MX season#Torneo Apertura|season]], the club reached the Liga MX final once again, facing América in a rematch of the [[2013 Liga MX Clausura Liguilla#Final|Clausura 2013 final]]. The first-leg ended 0–0, and América won the second-leg 2–0, extending Cruz Azul's league title drought.

In May 2020, club president [[Billy Álvarez|Guillermo Álvarez Cuevas]] was indicted on multiple charges, including [[tax evasion|tax fraud]], [[racketeering]], and [[money laundering]].<ref>{{cite web|url = https://www.fmfstateofmind.com/2020/5/29/21274314/cruz-azul-owners-being-investigated-for-money-laundering-links-to-organized-crime-liga-mx-narcos|title = Cruz Azul owners being investigated for money laundering, links to organized crime|date = 29 May 2020|access-date = 2 June 2021|archive-date = 2 June 2021|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210602214220/https://www.fmfstateofmind.com/2020/5/29/21274314/cruz-azul-owners-being-investigated-for-money-laundering-links-to-organized-crime-liga-mx-narcos|url-status = live}}</ref> An arrest warrant was issued on 26 July for Álvarez and other board members for alleged ties to organized crime.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.elfinanciero.com.mx/nacional/fiscalia-iria-por-billy-alvarez-y-tres-directivos-mas/|title=Fiscalía iría por Billy Álvarez y tres directivos más|date=30 July 2020|access-date=2 June 2021|archive-date=2 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210602214321/https://www.elfinanciero.com.mx/nacional/fiscalia-iria-por-billy-alvarez-y-tres-directivos-mas/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://aldianews.com/articles/culture/sports/arrest-warrant-issued-guillermo-alvarez-president-cruz-azul/59855|title=Arrest warrant issued for Guillermo Álvarez, president of Cruz Azul|date=31 July 2020|access-date=2 June 2021|archive-date=2 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210602215535/https://aldianews.com/articles/culture/sports/arrest-warrant-issued-guillermo-alvarez-president-cruz-azul/59855|url-status=live}}</ref> He resigned from his position in August 2020 after more than three decades as club president.<ref>{{cite web|url = https://espndeportes.espn.com/futbol/mexico/nota/_/id/8620944/billy-alvarez-cruz-azul-no-paga-detenido-carcel|title = Billy Álvarez, ex presidente de Cruz Azul, no paga 500 millones de pesos; pisará prisión si es detenido|date = 11 May 2021|access-date = 31 May 2021|archive-date = 16 June 2021|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210616085456/https://espndeportes.espn.com/futbol/mexico/nota/_/id/8620944/billy-alvarez-cruz-azul-no-paga-detenido-carcel|url-status = live}}</ref> Álvarez remained a fugitive for over four years before being arrested in Mexico City on 16 January 2025 and transferred to the [[Federal Social Readaptation Center No. 1|Penal del Altiplano]] federal prison.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://en.as.com/en/2020/08/21/latest_news/1598042991_590319.html|title=Interpol is looking for Billy Álvarez in 195 countries|agency=AS USA|date=21 August 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Araujo |first1=Matias E. |title=Detienen a Billy Álvarez, ex directivo de Cruz Azul, en CDMX |url=https://www.infobae.com/mexico/deportes/2025/01/16/reportan-detencion-de-billy-alvarez-ex-directivo-de-cruz-azul-en-cdmx/ |access-date=16 January 2025 |agency=Infobae |date=16 January 2025 |language=es}}</ref>

On 6 December 2020, Cruz Azul played [[Club Universidad Nacional|Pumas UNAM]] in the [[Guardianes 2020 Liga MX final phase|Guardianes 2020]] semi-finals. Despite winning the first-leg 4–0, Cruz Azul lost the second-leg by the same scoreline. With the aggregate score level at 4–4, Pumas UNAM advanced to the final due to their higher placement in the regular season standings, in accordance by the competition's tiebreaker rules.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://espndeportes.espn.com/futbol/mexico/nota/_/id/8620944/billy-alvarez-cruz-azul-no-paga-detenido-carcel |title=Billy Álvarez, ex presidente de Cruz Azul, no paga 500 millones de pesos; pisará prisión si es detenido |language=es |date=6 December 2020 |access-date=6 December 2020 |archive-date=13 May 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210513092504/https://espndeportes.espn.com/futbol/mexico/nota/_/id/8620944/billy-alvarez-cruz-azul-no-paga-detenido-carcel |url-status=live}}</ref>

===2021–present: End of the second drought and new successes===
Following the Guardianes 2020 tournament, Cruz Azul appointed [[Juan Reynoso (footballer)|Juan Reynoso]] as head coach in preparation for the [[2020–21 Liga MX season#Torneo Guardianes 2021|Guardianes 2021 season]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=3 January 2021 |title=Juan Reynoso es el nuevo técnico de Cruz Azul |url=https://www.espn.com.mx/futbol/mexico/nota/_/id/7982843/juan-reynoso-tecnico-cruz-azul-oficial |access-date=11 May 2025 |website=ESPN |language=es}}</ref> Reynoso, a former player, had been part of the club's most recent league title in the [[1997–98 Mexican Primera División season#Torneo Invierno|Invierno 1997 season]]. Álvaro Dávila also joined as executive president.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 January 2021 |title=Llega Álvaro Dávila como presidente ejecutivo de Cruz Azul |url=https://espndeportes.espn.com/futbol/mexico/nota/_/id/8001924/alvaro-davila-nuevo-presidente-ejecutivo-cruz-azul?utm_source=chatgpt.com |access-date=11 May 2025 |website=ESPN |language=es}}</ref> After two opening defeats, Cruz Azul won 12 consecutive matches, tying the [[Liga MX]] record set by [[Club León|León]] in the [[2018–19 Liga MX season#Torneo Clausura|Clausura 2019]]. The streak ended with a 1–1 draw against [[Club América|América]], and Cruz Azul finished the regular season as league leaders with 41 points from 17 matches. In the playoffs, Cruz Azul eliminated [[Deportivo Toluca F.C.|Toluca]] and [[C.F. Pachuca|Pachuca]] to reach the final, where they faced [[Santos Laguna]]. After a 1–0 win in the first leg and a 1–1 draw in the return leg on 30 May 2021, Cruz Azul secured a 2–1 aggregate victory to win their ninth league title, ending a 23-year championship drought.<ref name=":0" /><ref>{{cite web|url=https://en.as.com/en/2021/05/31/football/1622416584_273330.html|title=Cruz Azul beats Santos 2-1 on aggregate to end their 24-year championship drought|work=As|language=en|date=30 May 2021|access-date=31 May 2021|archive-date=2 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210602003746/https://en.as.com/en/2021/05/31/football/1622416584_273330.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The club followed that success by defeating [[Club León|León]] 2–1 in the [[2021 Campeón de Campeones|Campeón de Campeones]] match on 18 July 2021.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com.mx/futbol/reporte/_/juegoId/604214|title=Cruz Azul 2-1 León (18 de Jul., 2021) Resultado Final - ESPN (MX): Cruz Azul supera al León y conquista el Campeón de Campeones|publisher=ESPN México|language=es|date=18 July 2021}}</ref> Despite this, Cruz Azul struggled in the following tournaments. After elimination in the [[2021–22 Liga MX season#Torneo Clausura|Clausura 2022]] quarter-finals, Reynoso was dismissed on 18 May 2022.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com.mx/futbol/mexico/nota/_/id/10384030/cruz-azul-juan-reynoso-fuera-tecnico-termina-relacion-cesado|title=Cruz Azul termina relación con el técnico Juan Reynoso|publisher=ESPN México|language=es|date=18 May 2022}}</ref>

On 30 May 2022, [[Diego Aguirre]] was named head coach.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com.mx/futbol/mexico/nota/_/id/10449221|title=Diego Aguirre: 'Llegar a Cruz Azul es una responsabilidad muy grande'|publisher=ESPN México|language=es|date=30 May 2022}}</ref> He led the club to a win in the [[2022 Supercopa de la Liga MX]], defeating [[Atlas F.C.|Atlas]] on penalties after a 2–2 draw.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.tudn.com/futbol/liga-mx/campeon-de-campeones-cruz-azul-derrota-atlas-penales-gana-supercopa-mx|title=¡En penales! Cruz Azul vence al Atlas y se lleva la Supercopa MX en Campeón de Campeones|publisher=TUDN|language=es|date=26 June 2022}}</ref> However, Aguirre was dismissed on 21 August after a 7–0 loss to [[Club América|América]], one of the club's worst defeats.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com.mx/futbol/mexico/nota/_/id/10806239/cruz-azul-despide-a-diego-aguirre-tras-goleada-con-america|title=Cruz Azul despide a Diego Aguirre tras goleada ante América|publisher=ESPN México|language=es|date=21 August 2022}}</ref> [[Raúl Gutiérrez]] succeeded him<ref>{{cite web|url=https://abcnoticias.mx/deportes/2022/8/24/potro-gutierrez-es-nuevo-entrenador-de-cruz-azul-169539.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com|title=‘Potro’ Gutiérrez es nuevo entrenador de Cruz Azul|publisher=ABC Noticias|language=es|date=24 August 2022}}</ref> but was let go on 13 February 2023 after a poor run of results.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com.mx/futbol/mexico/nota/_/id/11621434/oficial-cruz-azul-anuncia-la-salida-de-raul-gutierrez-como-tecnico|title=Oficial: Cruz Azul anuncia la salida de Raúl Gutiérrez como técnico|publisher=ESPN México|language=es|date=13 February 2023}}</ref> [[Ricardo Ferretti]] was then appointed on 22 February,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com.mx/futbol/mexico/nota/_/id/11658038|title=Ricardo Ferretti es nuevo técnico del Cruz Azul|publisher=ESPN México|language=es|date=22 February 2023}}</ref> but was also dismissed on 7 August.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com.mx/futbol/mexico/nota/_/id/12410248|title=Cruz Azul termina relación laboral con Ricardo 'Tuca' Ferretti|publisher=ESPN México|language=es|date=7 August 2023}}</ref> [[Joaquín Moreno]] was named interim<ref>{{cite web|url=https://esto.com.mx/753422-joaquin-moreno-fue-presentado-como-dt-interino-de-cruz-azul/|title=“Confío en mi capacidad”: Joaquín Moreno buscará levantar a Cruz Azul|publisher=ESTO|language=es|date=9 August 2023}}</ref> and later confirmed as head coach for the remainder of the [[2023–24 Liga MX season#Torneo Apertura|Apertura 2023 tournament]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.milenio.com/futbol/liga-mx/joaquin-moreno-se-quedara-cruz-azul-podria-seguir-en-2024|title=Joaquín Moreno se quedaría en Cruz Azul TODO el Apertura 2023; analizan posible continuidad para 2024|publisher=MILENIO|language=es|date=11 October 2023}}</ref> After a 16th-place finish, Moreno stepped down in 19 December<ref>{{cite web|url=https://juanfutbol.com/liga-mx/cruz-azul-joaquin-moreno-se-desploma-tras-fracaso-celeste-fue-muy-desgastante-20231113-jfb-120554|title=Cruz Azul: Joaquín Moreno se DESPLOMA tras FRACASO celeste; "fue muy desgastante"|language=es|date=13 November 2023|accessdate=10 November 2024|archive-date=11 November 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241111080201/https://juanfutbol.com/liga-mx/cruz-azul-joaquin-moreno-se-desploma-tras-fracaso-celeste-fue-muy-desgastante-20231113-jfb-120554|url-status=live}}</ref> and was appointed director of the [[Cruz Azul Reserves and Academy|club's reserves and academy system]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://vamoscruzazul.bolavip.com/noticias/seguira-en-el-club-se-confirmo-el-nuevo-puesto-que-tendra-joaquin-moreno-en-cruz-azul-20231129-VCA-36069.html|title=Seguirá en el club: se confirmó el nuevo puesto que tendrá Joaquín Moreno en Cruz Azul|publisher=vamoscruzazul|language=es|date=29 November 2023}}</ref>

On 20 December 2023, Cruz Azul appointed [[Martín Anselmi]] as head coach.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.tudn.com/futbol/liga-mx/quien-es-martin-anselmi-entrenador-de-cruz-azul-para-el-clausura-2024|title=¿Quién es Martín Anselmi, el nuevo entrenador de Cruz Azul para el Clausura 2024?|work=As|language=es|date=20 December 2023|accessdate=21 December 2023|archive-date=11 November 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241111080154/https://www.tudn.com/futbol/liga-mx/quien-es-martin-anselmi-entrenador-de-cruz-azul-para-el-clausura-2024|url-status=live}}</ref> Ahead of the [[2023–24 Liga MX season#Torneo Clausura|Clausura 2024]], the club signed several players including [[Kevin Mier]], [[Gabriel Fernández (footballer, born 1994)|Gabriel Fernández]], [[Lorenzo Faravelli]] and [[Gonzalo Piovi]]. After an opening loss, Cruz Azul went on to finish second in the regular season with 33 points. The club eliminated [[Club Universidad Nacional|Pumas UNAM]] and [[C.F. Monterrey|Monterrey]] to reach the final against [[Club América|América]]—the sixth final between the two clubs, making it the most contested final in Liga MX history.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.record.com.mx/futbol-liga-mx-noticias/cuales-son-las-finales-mas-repetidas-en-el-deporte-profesional-mexicano?amp|title=¿Cuáles son las Finales más repetidas en el deporte profesional mexicano?|work=As|language=es|date=19 November 2024|accessdate=26 February 2024}}</ref> América won the title 2–1 on aggregate following a penalty awarded in the second-leg.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Cornejo |first=Giancarlo |date=27 May 2024 |title='LA 15' — Club América win Clausura 2024 to become back-to-back Liga MX champions for first time ever |url=https://the18.com/en/soccer-news/club-america-defeat-cruz-azul-liga-mx-clausura-2024-champions-highlights/136291 |access-date=11 May 2025 |website=THE18}}</ref>

In the [[2024–25 Liga MX season#Torneo Apertura|Apertura 2024]], Cruz Azul began with a six-match unbeaten streak and entered the final matchday needing just a draw to set a new Liga MX short-tournament points record. A late equalizer by [[Ángel Sepúlveda]] against [[Tigres UANL]] gave Cruz Azul a 1–1 draw and secured a record 42 points.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Maya |first=Erick |date=9 November 2024 |title=¡Misión cumplida! Cruz Azul rompe récord de puntos en Liga MX en torneos con 17 jornadas |url=https://www.mediotiempo.com/futbol/liga-mx/cruz-azul-rompe-record-puntos-liga-mx-torneos-17-jornadas |access-date=11 May 2025 |website=mediotiempo |language=es}}</ref> Cruz Azul defeated [[Club Tijuana|Tijuana]] in the quarter-finals after overturning a 3–0 first-leg deficit with a 3–0 home win.<ref>{{cite web |last=Plummer |first=Sam |date=2 December 2024 |title=Apertura Quarterfinal Shock: 2nd and 3rd Seeds Eliminated |url=https://vivaligamx.com/apertura-quarterfinal-shock-2nd-and-3rd-seeds-eliminated-01je1qvbqxvg?utm_source=chatgpt.com |accessdate=11 May 2025 |website=vivaligamx |language=}}</ref> In the semi-finals, the club faced América. After a 0–0 draw in the first-leg, Cruz Azul equalized late in the second-leg, but América advanced with a stoppage-time penalty, winning 4–3 on aggregate.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Casillas |first=Roberto |date=9 December 2024 |title=America Advances to the Liga MX Final in an Instant Classic: Things We Learned From America 4-3 Cruz Azul |url=https://www.si.com/soccer/things-we-learned-from-cruz-azul-vs-club-america-liga-mx-apertura-2024-semifinals?utm_source=chatgpt.com |access-date=11 May 2025 |website=SI}}</ref>

Ahead of the [[2024–25 Liga MX season|Clausura 2025]], Cruz Azul announced that its home matches would be played [[Estadio Olímpico Universitario]].<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.record.com.mx/futbol-liga-mx-cruz-azul/cruz-azul-se-muda-cu-la-maquina-jugara-en-el-estadio-olimpico?amp|title= Cruz Azul se muda a CU: La Máquina jugará en el Estadio Olímpico Universitario para el Clausura 2025|date= 8 January 2025|access-date=2025-02-28|language=es}}</ref> On 25 January 2025, Anselmi departed for Portuguese club [[FC Porto|Porto]] without prior notice to the club, leading to controversy and the threat of legal action over alleged breach of contract.<ref>{{cite web |date=24 January 2025 |title=Anselmi Pulls a Fernando Gago and Leaves Cruz Azul for Porto |url=https://www.beinsports.com/en-us/soccer/liga-mx/articles-video/anselmi-pulls-a-fernando-gago-and-leaves-cruz-azul-for-porto-2025-01-24 |access-date=2025-02-28 |website=beinsports}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=27 January 2025 |title=Anselmi Explains Cruz Azul Exit, Joins Porto as New Manager |url=https://www.beinsports.com/en-us/soccer/articles-video/anselmi-explains-cruz-azul-exit-joins-porto-as-new-manager-2025-01-27 |access-date=2025-02-28 |website=beinsports}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Pacheco |first=Enrique |date=21 February 2025 |title=Cruz Azul Seeks Revenge Against Anselmi: TAS Accepts Lawsuit Against Coach |url=https://www.soyfutbol.com/en/en/news/Cruz-Azul-Seeks-Revenge-Against-Anselmi-TAS-Accepts-Lawsuit-Against-Coach-20250221-0015.html |access-date=2025-02-28 |website=SoyFútbol}}</ref> [[Vicente Sánchez]] was appointed interim manager<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.footboom1.com/en/news/football/2321652-anselmi-bids-farewell-to-cruz-azul-vicente-sanchez-named-new-head-coach-of-la-maquina|work=footboom|title=Anselmi Bids Farewell to Cruz Azul; Vicente Sánchez Named New Head Coach of La Máquina|date=22 January 2025|access-date=2025-03-13}}</ref> and was later confirmed as permanent head coach on 23 February.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.footboom1.com/en/news/football/2402286-cruz-azul-backs-sanchez-as-head-coach-until-2025|work=footboom|title=Cruz Azul Backs Sánchez as Head Coach Until 2025|date=26 February 2025|access-date=2025-03-13}}</ref>