Fidalgo and América: Five years that went down in Liga MX history
Álvaro Fidalgo is to return to his native Spain, after a successful, trophy-laden spell in Mexico with Club América.
As Club América put an end to its Clausura 2026 scoring drought with a 2-0 win over Necaxa on Saturday, an unexpected development shook the Azulcrema world: Álvaro Fidalgo’s departure was beginning to take shape.
The victory brought sporting relief, but at the same time opened a chapter of uncertainty for a fanbase celebrating the goals while trying to process the possible exit of one of its most emblematic players.
The midfielder watched the match from one of the suites at Estadio Ciudad de los Deportes - far from the pitch but at the center of the conversation. As Las Águilas found the net again, negotiations pointed toward his return to Spanish soccer.
The possibility that Fidalgo might leave Coapa immediately resonated throughout the stadium and across social media. Fans didn’t stop expressing their affection and admiration, with some even pleading for him to stay at the club.
On Sunday, however, LaLiga club Real Betis confirmed it had reached an agreement to sign the Spaniard.
Club de Fútbol América 🤝 Real Betis pic.twitter.com/uGuexr9EFk
— Real Betis Balompié (@RealBetis_en) February 1, 2026
A look back at Fidalgo’s América career
Fidalgo arrived at América in February 2021 from CD Castellón, in a move pushed directly by then‑head coach Santiago Solari.
Fidalgo’s signing raised questions because he was a relatively unknown name, but he quickly adapted to the project. That same year he scored his first goal with Las Águilas - against Necaxa, fittingly - a sign of how smoothly he was integrating into Mexican soccer.
One of the most memorable moments of his time in Mexico came in the Clausura 2023 semifinal against Chivas, when he was sent off for a foul on Fernando Beltrán. That red card ultimately led to América’s elimination. Fidalgo publicly took responsibility, and his future at the club was questioned.
But with the arrival of André Jardine, the Spaniard kept his place in the starting XI and became a pivotal figure in the that delivered América’s historic three‑peat. His presence was key in playoff runs and decisive matches, solidifying his standing in the locker room to the point of sharing the captain’s armband with another club icon: Henry Martín.
Off the field, he also deepened his ties to Mexico. In December 2024 he obtained Mexican citizenship, and on Feb. 2 he was due to reach five years of residency - a requirement that makes him eligible to play for El Tri.
Era-defining stats and silverware
Over the course of multiple seasons, the midfielder established himself as one of the biggest stars of América’s recent history. He played 227 official matches, contributed 22 goals and 30 assists, and was part of five official titles, including three straight league championships between 2023 and 2024.
Related stories
Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.
Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.
Complete your personal details to comment