In a bittersweet moment for Mexican soccer fans around the globe, legendary midfielder Andrés Guardado has announced his retirement from professional soccer at the age of 38. The news came via a heartfelt social media post on Wednesday, where the all-time leader in appearances for Mexico’s national team reflected on his illustrious 19-year career.
Guardado, who currently plays for Liga MX club León, revealed that his decision to hang up his boots will take effect at the end of the current season. Barring a miraculous playoff run by his struggling side, the midfield maestro’s final match is likely to be this Saturday, November 9th, in an away fixture against Monterrey.
“I wanted to make public my decision to leave soccer at the end of this season and to stop being a professional player after 19 years,” Guardado shared in his post, expressing gratitude to León president Jesus Martinez for allowing him the opportunity to retire in his home country. “I know that things didn’t turn out the way we wanted, but I’m proud to belong to this institution.”
A Storied Career Spanning Two Decades
Andrés Guardado’s soccer journey began with his boyhood club Atlas in 2005, where his dynamic playmaking abilities quickly caught the eye of scouts across the Atlantic. In 2007, the Guadalajara native made the leap to European soccer, embarking on a tenure that would see him become a household name in Spain, Germany, and the Netherlands.
Over the course of his club career, Guardado represented some of Europe’s most prestigious teams, including:
- Deportivo de la Coruña (Spain)
- Valencia (Spain)
- Bayer Leverkusen (Germany)
- PSV Eindhoven (Netherlands)
- Real Betis (Spain)
An Unforgettable Legacy with El Tri
While his club achievements were impressive, it was on the international stage where Andrés Guardado truly cemented his status as a Mexican soccer icon. The midfield general earned an astonishing 181 caps for El Tri, scoring 28 goals and leading his nation to three Gold Cup titles in 2011, 2015, and 2019.
Guardado’s longevity and consistency saw him become one of just eight players in history to be called up to five separate World Cups. His contributions to the national team were recognized in a memorable farewell match against the United States last month, held in his hometown of Guadalajara.
A Bittersweet Ending with León
Guardado’s final chapter as a professional, with Liga MX side León, has been a challenging one. Despite the veteran’s presence, the team has struggled to make an impact, failing to qualify for the playoffs in the 2024 Clausura and teetering on the brink of elimination in the current Apertura tournament.
As things stand, León will need a minor miracle to extend their season beyond this weekend’s clash with Monterrey. Should they fall short, Saturday’s match will serve as an impromptu farewell for one of Mexico’s greatest ever players – a bittersweet ending to a truly remarkable career.
Regardless of how his final match unfolds, Andrés Guardado’s legacy as a trailblazer for Mexican soccer is secure. His skill, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the sport have inspired a generation of fans and players alike, ensuring that his impact will be felt long after he steps off the pitch for the final time.
