Times do México: 9 Foreign Players Who Became Legends

Mexico’s vibrant football scene has long been a magnet for talent from all over the world. While the local players often dominate the headlines, it’s the foreign players who have added international flair, resilience, and unforgettable moments that fans still cherish today. In this article, we explore 9 foreign players who became absolute legends with Times do México (Mexican football clubs).

From goal-scoring machines to midfield maestros and iconic goalkeepers, these international stars didn’t just play in Liga MX—they left an enduring legacy.

1. José Saturnino Cardozo – The Paraguayan Goal Machine

When talking about legendary foreign players in Mexico, José Saturnino Cardozo is often the first name mentioned. The Paraguayan striker spent most of his career at Toluca, where he became the all-time top scorer.

Club: Deportivo Toluca

Goals: 249 in all competitions

Titles: 4 Liga MX championships

Cardozo’s scoring instincts, physical strength, and humble personality made him a fan favorite. Even years after retirement, his name echoes in the stands of the Estadio Nemesio Diez.

2. Miguel Marín – Argentina’s Goalkeeping Icon

Miguel Marín is regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers to play in Mexican football. Known as “El Gato,” his agility and composure between the sticks were unmatched.

Club: Cruz Azul

Years Active: 1971–1980

Titles: 5 league titles with Cruz Azul

He transformed Cruz Azul into a dominant force in the 1970s and became a club idol. Marín was so influential that the club even retired his number after his death in 1991.

3. Evanivaldo Castro “Cabinho” – The Brazilian Sniper

Cabinho, as he’s widely known, is a Brazilian striker who became Liga MX’s all-time top scorer—a record that still stands today.

Clubs: UNAM Pumas, León, Atlante, Tigres

Goals in Liga MX: 312

Golden Boots: 8 consecutive top scorer awards

Despite never playing for the Brazilian national team, Cabinho became a household name in Mexico due to his unstoppable scoring prowess and dominance in the 1970s and early ’80s.

4. Antonio Mohamed – The Turco Who Fell in Love with Mexico

Antonio “El Turco” Mohamed came to Mexico as a player and later became one of the most successful managers in Liga MX. As a foreign player, he made a significant impact at Toros Neza and Club América.

Clubs: Toros Neza, Monterrey, Club América

Legacy: Flair, charisma, and leadership

As a coach, he led Club América and Monterrey to league titles, blending Argentine football smarts with Mexican passion. Mohamed represents the full journey from foreign star to footballing legend.

5. Alex Aguinaga – Ecuador’s Midfield Magician

A true legend at Necaxa, Alex Aguinaga was the creative force behind the club’s golden era in the 1990s.

Club: Necaxa

Years Active: 1989–2003

Titles: 3 Liga MX championships

Aguinaga’s vision, passing, and control made him one of the best midfielders in the league. Even after retirement, he’s revered not only in Ecuador but across Mexican football.

6. Claudio Suárez – The Mexican Defender’s Argentine Counterpart: Damián Álvarez

While Claudio Suárez is known as Mexico’s “Emperor,” his Argentine counterpart in defense for many years was Damián Álvarez, a left winger who reinvented his role to become one of Tigres UANL’s most beloved players.

Clubs: Pachuca, Morelia, Tigres UANL

Titles: 5 Liga MX titles with Tigres

Years Active in Mexico: 2003–2018

Known as “El Enano,” Álvarez brought tireless energy, pace, and leadership to every match. He became a naturalized citizen and even played for the Mexican national team.

7. Gabriel Caballero – The Adopted Hero

Born in Argentina, Gabriel Caballero became a fan favorite at Pachuca, where his technical abilities and leadership played a pivotal role in their transformation into a top-tier club.

Clubs: Atlas, Pachuca

Years Active: 1995–2009

Achievements: 5 championships with Pachuca

He helped Pachuca win the Copa Sudamericana in 2006—one of the greatest achievements for a Mexican club on the international stage. Later, he also became a Mexican citizen and joined the national team.

8. André-Pierre Gignac – France’s Gift to Tigres

Few foreign players have created the same buzz as André-Pierre Gignac, the French striker who signed with Tigres UANL in 2015.

Titles: 4 Liga MX championships

Goals: Over 150 for Tigres

Accolades: Liga MX MVP, Golden Boot

His arrival brought European class and charisma to Mexican football. Gignac has become the face of Tigres and arguably one of the best foreign imports of the 21st century.

9. Carlos Reinoso – Chile’s Tactical Genius

Carlos Reinoso arrived in Mexico in the early 1970s and became an instant sensation at Club América. A skilled playmaker, he was known for his technique, vision, and leadership.

Club: Club América

Years Active: 1970–1979

Achievements: 2 Liga MX titles, 1 Copa Interamericana

After his playing days, Reinoso transitioned into coaching and continued to influence Mexican football. He is still regarded as one of Club América’s all-time greats.

Why Foreign Players Thrive in Mexico

Liga MX has long been open to talent from around the world. These international stars are often welcomed warmly by fans and given the opportunity to shine. From Argentina and Brazil to France and Ecuador, the diversity enriches the Mexican league with:

A variety of playing styles

Global exposure

Competitive spirit

Cultural exchange

In turn, many players fall in love with the country and choose to stay for decades or even their entire lives.

Cultural Impact Beyond the Pitch

These players weren’t just performers on the field—they became cultural icons. Some opened businesses, contributed to local communities, or even became media personalities and coaches in Mexico. Their legacies go beyond goals and assists.

Conclusion: A Legacy Written in Goals, Loyalty, and Passion

Times do México is not just about the teams—it’s about the legends who wore the jersey with pride. These 9 foreign players left an indelible mark on Mexican football and inspired generations of fans. Whether they came from South America or Europe, their passion blended perfectly with the Mexican football spirit.

Their stories prove that borders don’t matter when it comes to love for the game. As Liga MX continues to grow, it will surely welcome more international stars ready to make history.

FAQs About Foreign Players in Mexican Football

1. Who is the highest-scoring foreign player in Liga MX history?

Evanivaldo “Cabinho” Castro holds the record with 312 goals, making him the top-scoring foreign player of all time.

2. Are foreign players allowed in all Mexican clubs?

Yes, but there are restrictions. Liga MX currently limits the number of foreign players a club can register to ensure opportunities for local talent.

3. Why do so many South American players join Mexican teams?

Liga MX offers competitive salaries, strong fan support, and good living conditions, making it attractive for South American players seeking new challenges.