10 Best Mexican Soccer Players That Have Played In Europe

By: Greg Hawood

Break Studios Contributing Writer

The country of Mexico has produced many stars over the years but the 10 best Mexican soccer players that have played in Europe are the stars who have shone most brightly. Mexican players tend to have flair and an eye for goals and these ten exemplify those traits.

  1. Rafael Marquez (Barcelona). He is approaching the veteran stage but continues to be a stalwart in the heart of the defense for club and country. Not many of the Mexican players who have played in Europe have played for Barcelona. Marquez is the rock that holds the back line together. 
  2. Guillermo Franco (West Ham) Franco came to West Ham when he was already in his twilight years but he quickly became a fan favorite. The Mexican soccer star is reminiscent of Paolo Di Canio except that he stays out of trouble. 
  3. Javier Hernandez (Man Utd) He was one of the stars of the 2010 World Cup but this young striker became the latest Mexican soccer player to move to Europe when he earned a big money move to Man Utd. He is battling with Wayne Rooney for a spot in the team and so far looks like winning that battle.  
  4. Hugo Sanchez (Real Madrid) This star striker could put Mary Lou Retton to shame with his acrobatic goal celebrations. In the '80s he became the first big name Mexican soccer player to play in Europe and his success started an exodus from Mexico.  
  5. Giovanni Dos Santos (Spurs) Like Franco, Santos earns a living in London and he looks like becoming one of the star soccer players in the Premier League. This exciting Mexican attacker can undo the toughest back lines with his dazzling skills and is one to watch for the future. 
  6. Cuauhtemoc Blanco (Valldolid) Blanco Blanco is another example of a Mexican soccer player who came to prominence later in life. He will always be remembered for his mullet-like blonde hair style and his silky skills.
  7. Carlos Vela (Arsenal) Another striker and another London based Mexican soccer player. Vela has the potential to become of the best players in European soccer but competition is tough at Arsenal and his first battle involves holding down a regular spot in the team.
  8. Hector Moreno (AZ Alkmaar) This Mexican soccer player is one of the best young defenders in Europe and has helped his team emerge from the shadow of Ajax and PSV. He has already caught the eye of bigger clubs and looks set for a long spell in Europe. 
  9. Carlos Calcido (PSV) Mexican football is not renowned for its great defenders and neither is the Dutch league where Calcido is an unlikely star. He's an uncompromising tackler and a tough opponent for any striker to beat.  
  10. Andres Guardado (Deportivo) This player may not be a household name in Europe but he is one of the best Mexican players to have played in Europe. He helps unfashionable Deportivo keep their heads above water and only his age prevents him getting a move to a bigger club.
Posted on: Nov. 19, 2010