On Tuesday, Juan Carlos Osorio released his 32-man preliminary roster for Mexico's friendlies against Croatia and Ireland. But before the El Tri manager made his announcement, we assessed who was rounding into form ahead of a big summer of international competition.
Warming up
Jesus Duenas, MF, Tigres (Mexico)
Why he's here: Duenas is one of the main reasons why Tigres are in the Liga MX semifinals. Over two legs in last week's quarterfinal series against Clasico Regio rival Monterrey, he provided two goals and a solid presence in midfield en route to a 6-1 aggregate win.
What this means: Often seen as a backup player for Mexico, a continued strong showing in the playoffs could earn Duenas a surprisingly important role in the upcoming Confederations Cup.
Raul Jimenez, FW, Benfica (Portugal)
Why he's here: Two weeks ago, Jimenez scored the winner for Benfica in a 1-0 victory against Rio Ave. On Saturday, the striker followed up with another goal in the 5-0 demolition of Guimaraes. With Jimenez helping lead the attack, the three points gained over the weekend clinched a league title for Benfica.
What this means: The 26-year-old has found momentum at the perfect time. Although Jimenez might be second in line behind Javier Hernandez, he should have plenty of opportunities with Mexico once his European season is finished.
Giovani dos Santos, FW, LA Galaxy (United States)
Why he's here: Dos Santos has looked like one of the Galaxy's best in May. One week after scoring the equalizer in a 2-2 draw with the Chicago Fire, the striker collected a goal and an assist during Sunday's 3-1 victory over the New York Red Bulls.
What this means: Dos Santos' hard work is paying off for his club. He will join El Tri on June 4 ahead of World Cup qualifiers and the Confederations Cup.
Hector Moreno, DF, PSV Eindhoven (Netherlands)
Why he's here: On Sunday, Moreno once again found the back of the net during the 4-1 win over PEC Zwolle. Believe it or not, the defender finished the Eredivisie season with an eyebrow-raising total of seven goals.
What this means: Along with his defensive interventions and dominance in the back line, the 29-year-old is in excellent form ahead of a busy summer. Moreno is one of the few players in Mexico's roster that will have a spot guaranteed in the biggest matches.
Cooling down
Javier Eduardo Lopez, MF, Chivas (Mexico)
Why he's here: In spite of Chivas' spot in Liga MX's semifinals, there has been little to celebrate from the 22-year-old. During the recent quarterfinal series against Atlas, Lopez was largely ineffective in the attack for Los Rojiblancos.
What this means: The playoffs should have been a perfect opportunity to make a case for the Gold Cup. Instead, Lopez appears likely to be left out of any call-up for El Tri in the near future.
Cesar Montes, DF, Monterrey (Mexico)
Why he's here: In the aforementioned series between Monterrey and Tigres, Montes had a difficult time shutting down the reigning champions' thrilling attack. The 20-year-old failed to take control of his back line and constantly appeared to be a step behind.
What this means: The hype surrounding the youngster has died down after Monterrey's early exit from the playoffs. That said, Montes' maturity shown throughout the regular season should be enough to earn him a place in the Gold Cup.
Carlos Salcedo, DF, Fiorentina (Italy)
Why he's here: Last Saturday, Salcedo was left on the bench for Fiorentina in the 3-2 victory over Lazio. In his past 10 league matches, the defender has collected a meager total of one start for his Serie A squad.
What this means: Although it's up in the air if he will return to Liga MX once his loan with Fiorentina is finished this summer, Salcedo remains a key player for Mexico. It would be surprising to see the 23-year-old miss out on the Confederations Cup.
Miguel Layun, DF, Porto (Portugal)
Why he's here: While a couple of his Mexican teammates helped gain a 4-1 win against Pacos de Ferreira over the weekend, Layun was once again left off the gameday roster. The former Club America player has yet to get playing time for Porto since March.
What this means: Despite the fact that last season's assist leader is now completely ignored by Porto management, Layun still holds a valuable place with El Tri. Like Salcedo, expect the defender to gain a spot in the Confederations Cup roster.