Since Reinaldo Rueda took the helm as head coach, Honduras have shown marked improvement. Undefeated in their last four games, they now approach the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup with momentum and confidence, preparing to face Canada in their opening match. However, the absence of young star David Ruiz poses a potential challenge in their quest.
Before the tournament kicks off, Rueda articulated Honduras’ ambitions in the Gold Cup. “The illusion is to win it, to reach the final, but being aware that we have very strong rivals. This tournament will also serve to prepare us for what will be the final phase of the World Cup qualifiers. We want to measure our strength, measure our weaknesses, evaluate everything… Our idea is to aspire to a final stage. We are going to compete,“ he said, via AS.
Many fans view Honduras as underdogs in the competition. However, the team boasts high-caliber players like Luis Palma and Anthony Lozano who have the potential to make a significant impact. Meanwhile, David Ruiz’s absence presents a notable setback. Despite his young age, his skills and contributions would have brought valuable depth to their campaign.
Why will David Ruiz not play in the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup?
David Ruiz will miss the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup due to a scheduling conflict as Inter Miami compete in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, which overlaps with the tournament. Therefore, Javier Mascherano, Inter Miami’s coach, confirmed Ruiz will stay with the club as the team lacks reinforcements for the international competition, making Ruiz’s presence crucial.
Although Ruiz is on Inter Miami’s roster for the Club World Cup, he has not fully recovered from his strain injury. Even the journalist Jose Armando reported that David trained separately before the June 14 match against Al Ahly. Despite this, he remains in contention for group-stage play. Ruiz could see action in the upcoming games.
Though Honduras must cope with David Ruiz’s absence, head coach Reinaldo Rueda has played without him in recent games due to his injury. For that reason, Reinaldo has built momentum with the current lineup. This suggests the team might continue to perform well during the Gold Cup.