Erick ‘Chiquito’ Sánchez: “Mexicans have what it takes to go to Europe”
The América midfielder said Mexican players are undervalued in Europe but insisted they have the ability to compete in any league.
Erick “Chiquito” Sánchez has entered the debate over how Mexican players are perceived in Europe. Speaking at a press conference ahead of América’s clash with Tigres, the midfielder backed recent comments from Antonio Mohamed, who said Mexican talent is often overlooked on the continent.
Sánchez was unequivocal, arguing that there is more than enough quality to succeed in Europe’s top leagues.
“For me, he’s right,” said the Mexico international. “I know who said it, and I’m sure that any of us who are with the national team, if we weren’t here and were sold to Europe for whatever fee… I don’t know if Europeans would be willing to come here. I don’t know why, but personally, being Mexican makes it harder.”
“They think we’re not worth it”
The América midfielder was even more direct about the perception abroad.
“People in Europe think we’re not worth it, and they’re wrong. If they really look, there’s incredible quality in these teams and we could play anywhere. They undervalue us, but they also know we’re Mexican and we have what it takes to go over there and fight wherever it is. When we get an opportunity, we’re going to take it,” he said.
Sánchez’s remarks come as the export of Mexican players to Europe has once again become a topic of discussion, especially following Mohamed’s comments about the lack of trust in Mexican talent within the European market.
Learning from missing the last cycle
On a personal level, “Chiquito” admitted that missing out on the previous World Cup cycle ahead of Qatar was a significant setback, though he said he is working to avoid repeating that experience ahead of the 2026 tournament.
“I’m calm. It doesn’t depend on a club, it depends on what you do individually. I was left out of the last cycle and it was a tough blow for me. Now I’m trying to do better so I don’t get left out again,” he said.
The midfielder also addressed whether playing for América carries extra weight when it comes to national team selection.
“América gives you a plus because of what the club represents, but it doesn’t depend on the club. It depends on what I do, on showing the coach on the field, not just talking. To make sure it doesn’t happen again, I have to work until the last minute,” he concluded.
Sánchez made it clear that regardless of outside perceptions, Mexican players believe in their ability to compete anywhere and to seize their chances when they arise.
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