As one of the best football leagues in the world, it’s no surprise that Mexicans have featured in the English Premier League (EPL). Let’s review the Mexican players who have notably impacted the EPL with their talent, drive, and flair.
Javier Hernandez
There’s no better place to start than with the Little Pea, Javier Hernandez.
Signing for Manchester United in 2010, Chicharito immediately became an influential figure, netting 20 goals in his debut season.
His trademark ability to be in the right place at the right time, combined with his poacher’s instincts, made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. His stint at West Ham United further solidified his Premier League legacy. Hernandez remains one of the most successful Mexican exports in English football history.
Raul Jimenez
Forward Raul Jimenez is the only current Mexican player in the Premier League today.
Jimenez has been a shining star for Wolverhampton Wanderers since he first set foot in the Premier League in 2018. His stellar performances helped Wolves establish themselves as a formidable side.
A complete forward with strength, skill, and an eye for goal, Jimenez quickly became an integral part of the Wolves attacking force. He bagged 57 goals in 166 appearances in five seasons at Molineux. In November 2020, he sustained a severe head injury that threatened to end his career, but Jimenez fought back wearing a head guard.
In the summer of 2023, Jimenez signed a two-year deal with London-side Fulham for $6.5 million in transfer fees.
Carlos Vela
Despite having a rather tumultuous time at Arsenal, Carlos Vela showcased moments of brilliance that the Gunners’ faithful won’t forget.
His adept footwork, creativity, and impressive finishing ability dazzled fans and opponents alike. He completed 37 caps with the Gunners, including a handful for West Brom, where he played on loan during the 2010/11 season.
Though he found his true calling at LAFC in the MLS, where he has been nothing short of sensational, Vela’s influence during his Premier League days merits recognition.
Giovani dos Santos
Tottenham Hotspur’s Giovani dos Santos, a product of Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, had a mixed spell in the EPL.
Even though he couldn’t consistently replicate his form from his Barcelona days, dos Santos showed glimpses of his extraordinary talent. His creativity and flair added a new dimension to the Spurs‘ attack, and he remains one of the most gifted Mexican players to have graced the EPL.
As we look towards the future, we can only anticipate more Mexican stars gracing England’s football stadiums, leaving their unique imprints on the beautiful game.
Guillermo Franco
Guillermo Franco graced the West Ham team during the 2009/10 season, a tenure fondly recalled by the fans.
After being picked up on a free transfer from Villareal, he made 23 appearances, notched up five goals, and provided three assists.
His crucial contributions aided West Ham in preserving their spot in the Premier League.
Carlos Salcido
Carlos Salcido signed with Fulham in 2010 after an impressive run at the World Cup 2010.
At Fulham, Salcido quickly established himself as a dependable presence at the back. Despite his stay being relatively short, spanning a single season with 23 appearances, his defensive skills were clear to see. Salcido’s clever positioning, tactical awareness, and ability to anticipate play were key elements that contributed to Fulham’s defensive line-up.
Jared Borgetti
Jared Borgetti is another name that echoes in the annals of Mexican football and the English Premier League. As one of Mexico’s most prolific goal-scorers, Borgetti was a player of extraordinary talent and exceptional goal-scoring ability.
In 2005, Borgetti embarked on his Premier League journey with Bolton Wanderers, becoming the first Mexican player to join an English club. Known for his aerial proficiency and knack for finding the back of the net, Borgetti added a unique dimension to the Wanderers’ attacking lineup.
Despite his tenure at Bolton being brief and his tally modest at seven goals from his 32 appearances, his presence in the squad was notable. While the pace and physicality of the Premier League presented a challenging adjustment for Borgetti, he showcased moments of striking brilliance that underlined his international reputation.
Borgetti’s trailblazing move to Bolton paved the way for subsequent Mexican players in the English Premier League.
Top Premier League Appearances by Mexican Players
| Player | Appearances |
|---|---|
| Chicharito | 158 |
| Raul Jimenez | 78 |
| Carlos Vela | 37 |
| Guillermo Franco | 23 |
| Carlos Salcido | 23 |
Top Premier League Goal Scorers (Mexican Players)
| Player | Goals |
|---|---|
| Chicharito | 53 |
| Raul Jimenez | 32 |
| Guillermo Franco | 5 |
| Carlos Vela | 5 |
| Jared Borgetti | 2 |
Photo: Wikimedia Commons/Steindy (talk), ManuelContreras1996
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