Andrés Guardado presented by León: “An exciting future awaits us”

Almost a week after announcing Andrés Guardado’s signing, León presented the player in front of thousands of fans out on pitch at their stadium in Bajío on Tuesday. The 37-year-old, returns to his homeland on a free transfer after rescinding the remaining six months of his contract with Betis. The former Atlas youth player thanked the board for inviting him to play for León.

Big turnout

“I’m very happy to be here, to be with you, with great fans like you,” the player began. “I know that an exciting future awaits us. I hope you know that I am going to give everything for you and I hope you identify with me. I know what this club badge and this shirt mean to you and I understand it in the same way. Thank you very much and I hope this is a great year for León and for all of us”.

Guardado has been handed the No.17 jersey which legendary striker Mauro Boselli wore during six years at the club. The Mexican winger assured that he will wear it with great responsibility. “I know what this number represents for you, I know that there is a legend in the club who wore this number and I hope I am worthy of wearing it and I hope you identify with me on the field,” he said.

Family connection

El Principito also revealed the reason why he decided to sign for León and not return to his first club, Atlas. “Firstly, because a year and a half ago, they came looking for for me at what was a very difficult time for me, when I was possibly going to be left without a World Cup. But they opened the doors of this magnificent club to me and that really made an impression. So when [Jesús Martínez] enquired about me again, I didn’t hesitate - I knew that I had a debt. I knew that at some point my path was going to cross with León. For those who might not know, my father played for León. He is from Lagos de Moreno, my father came every day to train here in León. So this is where the family cycle closes and my father will be proud to know that I will wear this shirt,” he added.

León president Jesús Martínez Murguía, clearly delighted to have finally signed the distinguished Mexico international, welcomed him on board: “I want to welcome you to this city and tell you that we have the best fans in Mexico. I’m sure that little by little, you are going to fall in love with these great fans. Thank you and your family for deciding to come to this club. I know how much you can bring to the team and how proud you are which is why all of us want to welcome you to your new home”.