Former Manchester United footballer and Mexican sensation, Javier Hernández, known as Chicharito, has made a triumphant return to the club where he first donned a professional football shirt – and that was the iconic Chivas jersey.
In 2006, Javier Hernández, affectionately called “Chicarito,” signed his first professional contract with Chivas, proudly wearing the iconic Chivas jersey. Chicharito’s burgeoning career had an auspicious beginning. His unwavering dedication on the soccer field resulted in an impressive 26 goals in only 64 appearances in Liga MX, tallying up to 30 goals while wearing the Chivas jersey, which drew the gaze of scouts well beyond Mexico’s borders. Nevertheless, the Chivas jersey served as merely the prologue to a tale marked by relentless pursuit and football finesse.
His last goal while adorned in the Chivas jersey, a goal scored against Manchester United, was the captivating performance that ultimately secured his signing with the Red Devils:
Chivas Jersey to Manchester United Red: Chicharito’s Remarkable Journey
Four years later, he was recruited by the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson to join Manchester United for a sum of 7.5 million euros. In a captivating twist of fate, a 21-year-old Chicharito bid farewell to the Chivas jersey and embraced the iconic red of Manchester United. His arrival at Old Trafford in 2010 ignited a wave of anticipation and excitement, and he wasted no time in making his mark, netting an impressive 20 goals in his debut season.
Chicharito’s innate ability to be in the right place at the right time, coupled with his clinical finishing, quickly endeared him to fans. During his tenure with the Red Devils, he showcased an unwavering talent for finding the back of the net, solidifying his status as one of Mexico’s finest players to grace the Premier League. His agility, speed, and uncanny scoring prowess significantly bolstered Manchester United’s attacking prowess.
The initial years at Manchester United witnessed Chicharito’s transformation from a promising talent to a proven goal-scoring sensation, leaving an indelible mark in a league renowned for its competitiveness. His goals weren’t mere statistics; they often arrived at pivotal moments, etching his name deep into the annals of Manchester United’s storied history.
Loan to Real Madrid: FIFA Club World Cup Glory
Chicharito embarked on a loan spell with Real Madrid for the 2014-2015 season. During his tenure with Los Blancos, he delivered several remarkable performances, with one standout moment occurring in the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals against Atlético Madrid. In the 88th minute, Chicharito netted the solitary goal of the match, propelling Real Madrid into the semi-finals. Despite his impactful contributions, his stint at Real Madrid was relatively brief, and he primarily served as a substitute, which constrained his goal-scoring opportunities.
Following his time in Spain, he made a move to Bayer Leverkusen in the summer of 2015. He subsequently played for West Ham United, Sevilla, and the Los Angeles Galaxy before his much-anticipated return to Chivas, once again wearing the cherished Chivas jersey.
Watch the introduction of Chicharito wearing his new Chivas jersey once again in front of the packed stadium in Mexico:
The 35-year-old striker made a significant impact during his time at Manchester United, scoring 59 goals and providing 20 assists in 157 competitive matches while reminiscing about the Chivas jersey he wore earlier in his career. His stint at Real Madrid saw him contribute 9 goals and 9 assists in 33 appearances. He achieved two Premier League titles with Manchester United and clinched the FIFA Club World Cup with Real Madrid, but the Chivas jersey always held a special place in his journey.
A Proud Ambassador: Chicharito’s International Journey
Chicharito’s impact extended far beyond club football; he became a proud ambassador for Mexican football on the international stage. Throughout his illustrious career with the Mexican national team, he donned the national colors with immense pride, always mindful of his beginnings in the iconic Chivas jersey.
Over the course of 109 international matches, Chicharito showcased his exceptional talent and unwavering dedication. His ability to find the back of the net was nothing short of remarkable, amassing an impressive total of 52 goals. These goals weren’t merely statistics; they were moments of sheer brilliance that ignited the passion of Mexican football fans around the world.
Chicharito’s journey with the national team was a testament to his enduring commitment to representing Mexico with distinction. Every time he stepped onto the pitch, he carried with him the rich legacy of Mexican football, a legacy that had its roots in the Chivas jersey. It was a reminder of where he had come from and the journey that had led him to become one of Mexico’s most celebrated footballers.
As he continued to score goals and break records, Chicharito remained a source of inspiration for aspiring young talents in Mexico. His connection to the Chivas jersey served as a symbol of hope, proving that dreams could indeed be realized through talent, hard work, and unwavering determination. Chicharito’s legacy as both a Chivas and Mexico legend will forever be etched in the annals of football history.
Sir Alex Ferguson’s Heartfelt Message to Chicharito: A Touching Tribute
The legendary Sir Alex Ferguson had a heartfelt message for his former protégé upon his return:
“Chicharito! It’s your old boss here! Firstly, congratulations on your return to your old club in Mexico, where your journey began. Where I found you, and from where I brought you. You were a fantastic and tremendous player for us. You’ve had a magnificent career, and now that you’ve returned to your old team, you have the opportunity to share your experiences with the other players. So, my best wishes to your family, enjoy yourself, and score more goals while proudly wearing the Chivas jersey! All the best!“
Where to Find Chicarito Chivas Jerseys?
Chivas Heritage Threads: For the ardent admirers wishing to embody the rich legacy of Chivas FC, owning a classic Chivas jersey is a cherished venture. Various platforms extend an invitation for fans to acquire genuine Chivas attire.
Official Chivas Online Store
At the official Chivas online store, a diverse range of jerseys and an assortment of merchandise await, providing fans with a direct avenue to immerse themselves in the club’s rich heritage.
Chicharito #14 LA Galaxy 22/23 City of Dream Jersey
Fanatics
The virtual shelves of Fanatics offer a wide array of official Chivas jersey and memorabilia, providing yet another avenue for fans to proudly display their loyalty.