Two of the most influential figures in the history of Mexican soccer, Hugo Sánchez and Javier “Chicharito” Hernández, engaged in a conversation that quickly generated reactions among fans and specialists. Although they belong to different generations, both agreed on a criticism that has accompanied Mexican soccer for decades: the way players have been treated by some managers within the professional system.
The statements came during a talk published in the digital program Learning to be Human, a project promoted by Hernandez to address sports, personal and human issues from a deeper perspective.
Hugo Sanchez talks about the recognition of the footballer
During the conversation, Hugo Sanchez reflected on the recognition he has received throughout his career.
The former Real Madrid striker, considered by many to be the best Mexican soccer player of all time, said he felt valued by the fans.
Although he considers that at times he has not received the institutional recognition he expected.
“I do feel valued. I am valued, but there is not the recognition that there should be,” said the former striker.
The Pentapichichi also pointed out that, in his opinion, some directors have shown resistance to certain sports figures reaching a higher level of relevance than those who make decisions within Mexican soccer (Filed as: Hugo Sánchez criticizes Liga MX).
The memory of the old Liga MX Draft
One of the most talked-about moments of the interview came when they both reminisced about the old transfer regime.
It was popularly known as the Mexican soccer draft.
For years, this mechanism brought together club executives to negotiate loans, sales and exchanges of players before the start of each season.
Both Hugo Sanchez and Chicharito used that memory to reflect on how many players perceived that process.
“The managers wanted to use us as furniture.”
“Do you remember the draft? They sold us as if we were furniture,” commented Hugo Sánchez during the talk.
The statement did not take long to go viral on social networks.
Thousands of fans debated the evolution of soccer rights and autonomy in Mexico (Filed under: Hugo Sánchez criticizes Liga MX).
If I feel valued
Hugo Sánchez
A debate that continues
Although the traditional draft system disappeared several years ago and transfers currently operate under different mechanisms, the words of both former national team players brought a recurring discussion back to the table:
The balance between club interests and player rights (Filed under: Hugo Sánchez criticizes Liga MX).
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