The Mexican soccer star, at 35 years old, is going through one of the most challenging moments in his career after a knee injury that sidelined him for most of the 2023 season in the MLS. This led to LA Galaxy not extending his contract.

Javier Hernandez has been recovering for almost nine months, and while great things are expected from him in Liga MX, the reality is that his future is uncertain.

Despite his official presentation a few weeks ago, there were no indications of when he could make a comeback. Now, there seems to be a glimpse of hope for Chivas’ fans.

When will Chicharito Hernandez play his first game with Chivas?

Fernando Gago, coach of Chivas, included Chicharito Hernandez in the official squad list to face Pumas UNAM on Saturday, February 24 at Estadio Akron. This means that Javier could have his first minutes with the team today.

Chicharito is one of the great talents from the youth academy of Guadalajara and, in 2010, Jorge Vergara made possible a historic transfer to Manchester United.

Hernandez was mentored by Sir Alex Ferguson and became a star playing alongside Wayne Rooney. He won two Premier Leagues and played a Champions League final.

After many years in other clubs such as West Ham, Sevilla, Bayer Leverkusen and LA Galaxy, CH14 decided to return to Mexico to play the last years of his professional career with the team he loves.

At 35, the Mexican star went back to his boyhood club after enjoying successful stints in the Premier League, Bundesliga, and Major League Soccer. However, it looks like Liga MX fans will have to wait to see his debut this year.

While the 2024 Torneo Clausura is already underway, Chicharito is not expected to suit up for Chivas at least for a month. His first game could be on March 2, when the Rebaño Sagrado take on Cruz Azul on the road.

Why is Chicharito not playing for Chivas?

Chicharito Hernandez is still recovering from a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right knee. The Mexican picked up the injury on June 9, 2023, while playing for the Los Angeles Galaxy during a Lamar Hunt US Open Cup fixture against Real Salt Lake.

The striker underwent surgery two weeks later, and has been on a lengthy recovery process since then. But the good news is that he’s in the final weeks of rehab, which is why Chicharito is expected to be cleared to play sooner rather than later. He won’t take any risks right now, so fans will need to be patient.

The games Chicharito is expected to miss before making his Chivas debut in 2024

• Chivas vs. Toluca – January 30 (Liga MX)
• Atlético de San Luis vs. Chivas – February 4 (Liga MX)
• Forge FC vs. Chivas – February 7 (Concacaf Champions Cup)
• Chivas vs. FC Juárez – February 10 (Liga MX)
• Chivas vs. Forge FC – February 13 (Concacaf Champions Cup)
• Chivas vs. Pumas – February 24 (Liga MX)

The forward emerged from Chivas’ youth academy in Liga MX and later became the standout choice for Alex Ferguson at Manchester United. He formed a dream partnership in the attack alongside Wayne Rooney.

Later, his career took him to teams such as Real Madrid, Bayer Leverkusen, West Ham, and Sevilla. In 2020, Chicharito became the marquee signing for the LA Galaxy.

However, a serious knee injury in 2023 ended his time in the MLS, and now he is a free agent. Therefore, the 35-year-old player would be ready to return home as the big star of Liga MX.

Chicharito Hernandez will return to Chivas in Liga MX

According to a report from Sergio Dipp of ESPN Mexico, Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez has decided to sign with Chivas. It would be the biggest transfer in decades to boost Liga MX.

Chicharito played with Guadalajara from 2006 until 2010 scoring 26 goals in 58 games. He was the top scorer in Bicentenario 2010 with 10 goals and won a championship in Apertura 2006.

Now, the legendary striker will be the key piece of a massive rebuilding process led by Fernando Gago who is the new coach of the team after Veljko Paunovic decided to leave the club.

Chicharito had big offers as a free agent

Dipp also confirmed Chicharito Hernandez had many options after his contract expired with LA Galaxy. The report points out there were offers from many clubs in Europe, the MLS and the Middle East.

However, the special bond between Javier and the club was the main reason to return. In fact, Chivas’ president, Amaury Vergara, made a huge effort to convince the player this was his best choice. Who knows. This might even propel him to Mexico’s national team for 2024 Copa America.

However, in an exclusive interview with Fabrizio Romano, the Mexican forward has confirmed that he will continue playing as he has multiple offers from different leagues around the world.

“I am evaluating projects in MLS, Europe, Mexico and also Saudi Arabia. I came back stronger, more resilient and eager to continue enjoying soccer. My knee is great.”

It’s important to remember that Chicharito officially ended his contract with LA Galaxy, making him free to negotiate with any team. Additionally, all the money from a potential transfer would go to him.

Which will be the new team of Chicharito Hernandez?

Chicharito Hernandez has always expressed his desire to return to Mexico, but the reality is that very few teams in Liga MX could afford to pay him a star-level salary. Given this scenario, the list could narrow down to Chivas, America, Tigres, and Monterrey.

Certainly, considering his past with Guadalajara, Club America are completely ruled out. Although teams like Pachuca or Leon might have the financial means to make him an offer, Chicharito would likely prefer to play for a bigger team.

On the other hand, money would not be a problem in Saudi Arabia and the MLS. In recent months, names like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and Neymar have taken that path, and even players of a lower profile have signed spectacular contracts.

However, between those two options, Javier Hernandez’s marketing impact would likely be much greater in the MLS, given the millions of Mexicans living in the United States who idolize him. It would be a major signing for that league.

In the case of Europe, Chicharito has not displayed the level in recent years to be signed by a top-tier team. That’s why, a mid-table team might consider signing him, but the reality is that the financial aspect might not be as spectacular. MLS and Saudi Arabia have an advantage in that regard.

Which teams has Chicharito Hernandez played for?

Javier Chicharito Hernandez is the best all-time scorer for Mexico’s National team and the only Mexican who’s played for two of the greatest clubs in the world: Manchester United and Real Madrid.

Chicharito was formed in Chivas of Guadalajara and in 2010, Jorge Vergara (the club’s owner) made possible an agreement with the Red Devils. Chicharito was mentored by legendary manager, Sir Alex Ferguson, and had an immediate impact on attack helping Wayne Rooney.

He won two Premier Leagues and played a Champions League final. Other teams in his career: Bayer Leverkusen, West Ham, Sevilla and LA Galaxy. Chicharito is Mexico’s top scorer in World Cup history (4) and also has the distinction of scoring in three consecutive World Cups (2010, 2014 and 2018).

For many Mexican fans, Javier Hernandez Balcazar, better known as Chicharito, is regarded as one of the best players in their country’s history. The striker’s journey to stardom began with Chivas and included stints with some of the world’s top clubs, including Manchester United and Real Madrid.

In 2020, Hernandez decided to end his journey through Europe and move to the United States to play for LA Galaxy. However, his tenure with the Californian squad has now ended and his future is uncertain.

Chicharito Hernandez announces his departure from LA Galaxy on social media

Chicharito’s professional journey began on a remarkable note. The striker made his debut in 2006 with Chivas, impressing all with his remarkable talent, skills, and deep understanding of the game, which quickly paved the way for new opportunities.

Four years later, Manchester United came calling for the talented Chivas striker. He seamlessly integrated into the team, rapidly gaining recognition throughout Europe.

Hernandez subsequently had stints with Real Madrid, Bayer Leverkusen, West Ham, and Sevilla. His European career concluded in 2019 when he made the decision to join LA Galaxy and embark on his MLS journey.

With the Californian squad, Hernandez played 83 games, scoring 39 goals and registering seven assists. However, he has now said goodbye to the MLS squad after four seasons played with them.

On Instagram, Hernandez announced his departure from the Los Angeles Galaxy. “Life becomes exciting when you allow yourself to change and evolve to new challenges,” Chicharito wrote. “Thanks to everyone who was involved in my journey these 4 years. Thank you for everything, LA Galaxy.”

Chicharito’s next move remains uncertain. He was recently revealed as an owner of a team in the Kings League Americas, sparking speculation that he might consider retirement to dedicate more effort to this new venture.

Will Chicharito Hernandez retire soon?

As previously mentioned, Chicharito’s next steps remain uncertain. The striker faced a significant setback with a torn ACL in his right knee over the summer, leading to speculation that this injury might potentially mark the end of his career.

The 35-year-old striker has not made an official retirement announcement. While some fans speculate that he might return to Chivas to conclude his career where it all began, individuals close to him suggest that he’s not inclined to go back to Mexico.

In 2019, the Mexican icon joined the list of big-name players who signed for LA Galaxy, just like David Beckham and Zlatan Ibrahimovic did in the past. However, it wasn’t all sunshine and roses.

Though the former Manchester United sensation had some remarkable seasons, he also spent time on the sidelines and struggled to perform as his team failed to get results. Unfortunately, his time with the Galaxy may have come to an end.

Chicharito suffers season-ending injury in the last year of his contract

On Friday, the team announced Chicharito suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right knee during the 2023 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup quarterfinals against Real Salt Lake.

Hernandez is expected to miss the remainder of the season, since he needs surgery and the recovery would take at least six months. But this would not only end his season, but it could also mean the end of his tenure at Galaxy.

The 35-year-old is out of contract at the end of the year, and it’s uncertain whether the club intends to re-sign him. Needless to say, this is not the ending anyone would have wanted. Only time will tell whether the Mexican gets another chance in LA.

Those players were Danny Welbeck, Javier Hernandez, Jonny Evans and Brazilians Rafael and Fabio Da Silva. “They were the lifeblood of Manchester United, they all came through the system, all Man United boys, and that was lost as well.

“That was a part of what the club had been built on before, people who would come through the academy were integral to everything Man United stood for. And they were getting rid of those players willy-nilly, I couldn’t believe the club even allowed it.”

Javier Hernández at Manchester United

Ferdinand continued, “What they did at Man United they could’ve done that for the rest of their careers.” For Chicharito, his time at ManU was a success, scoring 59 goals in 157 games.

Chicharito had played a more super sub role at the club under Sir Alex Ferguson and would eventually get a loan to Real Madrid after the Mexican fell out of favor. Today, Hernández is playing with the Los Angeles Galaxy of MLS, where despite his 39 goals in 82 games, the Galaxy are a mess of a team.

Hernández is now in his fourth season in MLS and is the league’s third highest paid player at $7,443,750.00.

Chicharito is the best all-time scorer for in Mexico’s national team history with 52 goals. He leads a list of extraordinary names such as Jared Borgetti, Cuauhtemoc Blanco and Luis Hernandez.

Now, with the signing of Diego Cocca as new coach, the door was supposedly open for Javier Hernandez to come back with Mexico after more than three years without being considered. However, that won’t happen at the 2023 Concacaf Nations League Finals. These are the important reasons why.

Chicharito Hernandez won’t play the 2023 Concacaf Nations League Finals with Mexico

A few weeks ago, Diego Cocca confirmed publicly he had already spoken with Chicharito about a possible return to the national team. With a new project towards the 2026 World Cup, Cocca said Javier Hernandez had the same chances as anyone else. No sanctions for him.

However, after Mexico published their preliminar list for the semifinal against the United States in the Concacaf Nations League (June 15th at Las Vegas), Chicharito’s name doesn’t appear.

The forwards called by Cocca are: Santiago Gimenez (Feyenoord), Alexis Vega (Chivas), Henry Martin (America), Ozziel Herrera (Atlas), Raul Jimenez (Wolverhampton), Roberto de la Rosa (Pachuca) and Uriel Antuna (Cruz Azul).

Of course, the decision is very surprising as Hernandez remains the star of LA Galaxy in the MLS. Furthermore, other names with no activity at all in their clubs, such as Raul Jimenez with Wolverhampton, got the call from Diego Cocca.

Chicharito’s next chance could be the 2023 Gold Cup (June 24-July 16) where some of the players from Europe might not receive permission to participate by their clubs (Santiago Gimenez and Raul Jimenez).

However, Chicharito suffered a major disappointment after missing the Qatar 2022 World Cup. Though he had a solid season with LA Galaxy in the MLS, coach Gerardo Martino left him out of the tournament because of disciplinary reasons.

Now, Javier Hernandez just sparked another controversy. Though he is permanently out of Mexico’s National team, the striker criticized thousands of fans for their lack of support. Read here to check out the details of his full exposure.

Chicharito Hernandez slams Mexican fans

In recent months, Chicharito Hernandez has become a celebrity on Twitch and that’s where he made very controversial comments regarding the behavior of Mexican fans at Estadio Azteca during the Concacaf Nations League game against Jamaica.

Mexico suffered a lot to rescue a 2-2 tie and almost were eliminated from the long awaited Final Four which will be played in June at Las Vegas. During the match, thousands of fans booed historic players such as Guillermo Ochoa and Raul Jimenez. After seeing that, Chicharito had enough of it.

“The results aren’t coming and you complain. Don’t you think this is a bit extreme? Where’s the support then? Because when the goals are scored, and everything is going well, there’s no support. When the National team score, you celebrate, but you don’t support. So, when your team is tying against Jamaica and you boo them, you’re not supporting.”

For Javier Hernandez, there’s no way Mexico can get to the quarterfinals in the 2026 World Cup at home if this trend continues. “As a fan, you pay your ticket and you can complain, you can boo. Of course, you can do it. Everyone’s free to do whatever they want. But then, there’s no support for the National Team. I’m not saying the game against Jamaica is to celebrate, but I also think it’s not for booing. To boo in just the second game of Diego Cocca, that’s where I think all of us have to be better.”

Chicharito said that Mexican fans should learn from the example of Argentina in Qatar 2022. “Fans have to understand the word ‘support’. We’re all here for the Mexican National Team to have good results. It doesn’t matter who plays. Look at Argentina, World Champions, and a lot of people didn’t want Scaloni. And a lot of people said many players shouldn’t be there. World Champions. To be World Champions, it depends on all of us. To be worth of that title someday.”

However, Chicharito suffered a major disappointment after missing the Qatar 2022 World Cup. Though he had a solid season with LA Galaxy in the MLS, coach Gerardo Martino left him outof the tournament because of disciplinary reasons.

Now, Javier Hernandez was ready to be the leader of LA Galaxy in the start of a new season. However, a very controversial message by Chicharitoon Twitch didn’t suit well for coach Greg Vanney.

Chicharito Hernandez gets huge scoldingfrom LA Galaxy

In the last few months, Javier Hernandez has been public about how well he feels as a streamer. So, during one of his interventions on Twitch, Chicharito decided to give a full update about a recent hamstring injury. As LA Galaxy couldn’t play their opener against LAFC, the team will make their debut this weekend facing Dallas.The problem was that the club hadn’treleased any information about his status toward the game.

“Am I going to play in Dallas? No. I’m still recovering from my injury. I’m going to be out between twoto fivemore weeks, because we have to be very careful with the recovery to avoid any relapses.”

So, Chicharito thought speaking freely would be a good idea. Coach Greg Vanney wasn’t on board.”It’s not earth shattering in this situation, but, in different circumstances,these things could be very important information that you give to the other team that you don’t necessarily want to be doing.”

Greg Vanney send a warning to Chicharito about these constant participations on social media, especially when he crosses that fine line.”Ultimately, there is a way, a time and a place to give that information, because it’s also about the opposition. Game management, game preparation and all those kinds of things. I think that, at the end of the day, the players sometimes get out in front of it and want to let fans and other people know how they’re doing.”

Gerard Pique’s new project is the Kings League, a tournament in which 12 celebrities, including streamers, TikTokers and former soccer players, will own a team to compete in a 7 vs. 7 format.

Ibai Llanos is one of those owners. The Spanish streamer is in front of Porcinos FC and, as the rules establish, they are able to sign two stars for their teams. Well, he chose a striker for his team and convinced Chicharito Hernandez, LA Galaxy’s player,to join their cause next year.

What is the Kings League?

In November 10, 2022, Gerard Pique, former Barcelona defender, announced the creation of the Kings League. The president invited 12 celebrities to own a team and compete against each other for the title.

In this 7 vs. 7 format, the league will have a draft in December where people around the world will be selected to play in a tournament that will take place in January, 2023. All the players will be payed as they will be considered as professionals.

There are some new rules in this format as Pique wants a more attractive sport. One of those is that each team has two spots available for outsiders, which could be former soccer players, celebrities or whatever they want.

How did Ibai Llanos convince Chicharito Hernandez to sign with Porcinos FC?

A few days after the Kings League was born, the owners started talking about which would be their two extra signings. Ibai Llanos wanted a top player and reached Chicharito Hernandez to convince him to join Porcinos FC.

Both Ibai and Chicharito were live on stream when the Spanish called the striker. They started talking and Llanos told him about the idea. Hernandez answeredthat he was interested in joining his team as the league’s calendar doesn’t clashwith the MLS.

Now, Ibai announced on Twitch that Chicharito is the fist signing in the history of the Kings League. It is uncertain if the Mexican will play all the matches, but it is definitely a huge move by Porcinos FC to seek the title.

Kings League: Who are the owners of the 12 teams?

As said before, Gerard Pique looked for 12 celebrities to own a team in his new project. Streamers, TikTokers, former soccer players and even a journalist will be the heads of the 12 squads that will compete for the Kings League trophy in 2023.

• Porcinos FC (Ibai Llanos – Spanish Twitch streamer)
• Sayans FC (TheGrefg – Spanish Twitch streamer)
• Rayo Barcelona (Spursito – Spanish Twitch streamer)
• Aniquiladores FC (JuanSGuarnizo – Colombian Twitch streamer)
• Kunisports (Sergio Aguero – Former Argentinian forward)
• Ultimate Mostoles (DjMariio -Spanish Twitch streamer)
• Jijantes FC (Gerard Romero – Spanish journalist)
• PIO FC(Rivers – Mexican Twitch streamer)
• El Barrio (Adri Contreras – Spanish TikToker)
• XBuyer Team (xBuyer and MiniBuyer – Spanish Twitch streamers)
• 1K (Iker Casillas – Former Spanish goalkeeper)
• Troncos FC (Perxitaa – Spanish Twitch streamer)