Mexican prodigy Gil Mora becomes youngest player to represent Mexico at World Cup 2026

Seventeen‑year‑old midfielder Gilberto Mora made his debut for Mexico in the opening match of the 2026 World Cup, a 2‑0 win over South Africa. The appearance made him the youngest Mexican ever to play at a World Cup, breaking a record that had stood since the inaugural tournament in 1930.

Mora, who is under contract with Club Tijuana until 2029, has been linked with several European clubs, most notably Feyenoord, as well as Barcelona, Manchester United, Sporting CP and Napoli. Tijuana’s asking price of around €30 million makes a move to the Netherlands or other European leagues financially unrealistic, according to club officials.