Talents Calendar
The summer of 2026 promises to be a grand football event for Mexico. As one of the host nations for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, alongside Canada and the United States, El Tri is aiming high, particularly after their early exit from the 2022 World Cup. The national team has gained momentum and talent following their victories in the Gold Cup and the Concacaf Nations League in 2025. One emerging star is Gilberto Mora, who, at just 17, is already making a significant impact on the squad.
At 16, the talented playmaker, who represents Tijuana in club football, made history by debuting for the national team, breaking Armando Manzo’s record as the youngest player ever to do so. His initial appearance was not in a friendly match, but in a crucial Gold Cup quarterfinal against Saudi Arabia, which ended 2-0 in Mexico’s favor. His contributions did not stop there; he also assisted Raúl Jiménez’s winning goal in the semifinal against Honduras, making him the youngest player to directly influence a goal in the nation’s football history.
Expectations are high for Mora as he gears up for the World Cup next year. At just 17, he will bear the hopes of an entire nation, but he is no stranger to pressure. Since making his Liga MX debut 18 months ago, he has played 45 matches for the first team, scoring eight goals and providing two assists. Unsurprisingly, he holds the record as the youngest player to feature for his club and the youngest goalscorer in Liga MX history.
“Gilberto Mora is more than just another promising talent in Liga MX,” stated Osvaldo Camacho, Transfermarkt Area Manager Mexico. “At only 17, he already carries the creative weight of a top-tier team and faces pressures that surpass the usual youth development challenges. As an attacking midfielder who can play as a striker, winger, or central player, Mora is a modern playmaker with a low center of gravity, allowing him to maneuver adeptly in tight spaces while maintaining a keen vision for his teammates and using his dribbling skills to break through defensive lines.”
Gilberto Mora Attracts European Interest
Mora’s progress has surpassed the typical pace for most 17-year-olds. At 16, he was valued at €3 million and was briefly the most valuable player in his age group; his current market value has risen to €4 million, with an upward trend expected, especially due to strong interest from European clubs. Mora has confirmed, “Several top clubs have approached me already, but my focus is on playing football and performing well on the pitch. Everything else will come in due time.”
Camacho is confident that a transfer to Europe is imminent. “His profile aligns perfectly with what top clubs seek,” he remarked. “He is a creative midfielder who can hold onto the ball under pressure and consistently looks to make decisive plays. Mora’s versatility, composure, and finishing ability mark him as a wise long-term investment for clubs interested in discovering talent in the Americas before prices increase.”
While “affordable” is relative, Tijuana is reportedly seeking around $30 million (€26 million) for a share of his transfer rights. If his progression continues, he could become the most expensive Mexican player ever, surpassing the record of Hirving Lozano, who joined Napoli from PSV Eindhoven for €50 million in 2019. A strong World Cup performance would certainly elevate Mora’s profile, attracting even more attention.
From December 1 to 24, we are showcasing players born in 2008 and 2009 from various countries. Our series features insights from area managers, users, and data scouts as experts. You can follow all the showcased players by adding them to your TM watchlist.
