Mateo Chávez, a 22-year-old footballer from Monterrey, is emerging as a promising talent in Mexican football. He has recently been making waves, particularly after a season with AZ Alkmaar in the Netherlands. There, he honed his skills and learned the demands of high-performance football.
Journey to the National Team
Chávez made his professional debut with Chivas Guadalajara two years ago. However, he remained off the Mexican national team’s radar during a tumultuous 2024, when the team struggled under the management of Diego Cocca and Jaime Lozano. It wasn’t until Javier Aguirre returned as the national coach that Chávez got his chance, playing in a friendly match against Switzerland in 2025.
Aiming for Success in the World Cup
Now, Chávez is training with the Mexican national team in preparation for the 2026 World Cup. He feels honored to be part of this elite group, stating, “I’m proud to be considered. It’s a responsibility and a blessing.”
As a left-back, Chávez participated in 30 matches while with AZ Alkmaar, showcasing not only his defensive capabilities but also his strength in offense. His primary competition for the left-back position in the national team is Jesús Gallardo, who is gearing up for his third World Cup.
Goals and Aspirations
Chávez expresses his goal to secure a spot on the final roster for the World Cup. He acknowledges the challenge posed by Gallardo but views it as healthy competition, saying, “I respect Jesús a lot and aim to learn from him.” He is determined to earn his place through hard work and commitment: “I will give my best for the team.”
- Age: 22
- Club: AZ Alkmaar (Netherlands)
- Debut: Chivas Guadalajara
- Matches in Netherlands: 30
- Position: Left-back
- World Cup Goals: Secure a spot in the final list
The national squad, which features players ranging from 17 to 40 years old, benefits from a blend of youth and experience. Chávez notes the diverse backgrounds within the group, stating, “This mix of ages and experiences is valuable. Young players bring energy, while veterans guide us through tough matches.” He believes this combination will serve the team well in the upcoming tournament.
As he prepares for the World Cup, Mateo Chávez stands poised to make a significant impact both on the field and for the future of Mexican football.
