Gilberto Mora’s next move takes another twist after Manchester United decision

Gilberto Mora’s stock continues to soar after his outstanding performances for Mexico at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Club Tijuana midfielder has emerged as one of the tournament’s biggest breakout stars, attracting interest from several Premier League clubs. But while the race for his signature is intensifying, one English powerhouse has already decided to step aside.

Red Devils tracked Mora for six months

According to the Mirror, Manchester United have ended their interest in signing the 17-year-old after monitoring him closely for around six months. Club scouts followed his progress throughout the Liga MX season before continuing to watch him during Mexico’s World Cup campaign.

The decision is understood to be driven primarily by finances rather than football. United are reportedly unwilling to enter what is expected to become an expensive bidding war, with Manchester City and Chelsea also closely tracking one of Mexico’s brightest young talents.

No rush to leave Club Tijuana for Mora

For now, Mora remains under contract with Club Tijuana, where both the club and the player believe his development is best served by continuing his progression rather than forcing an immediate move to Europe.

His age also makes an instant transfer impossible. Under FIFA regulations, Mora cannot complete a move to a European club until he turns 18, meaning any major deal will have to wait several more months even if an agreement is reached beforehand.

Mora: a star of the 2026 World Cup

The midfielder has quickly established himself as one of the revelations of the tournament, impressing with his composure, technical ability and maturity despite being the youngest player in Mexico’s squad.

He made history against South Africa by becoming the youngest player ever to represent Mexico at a FIFA World Cup. Days later, he added another milestone by becoming the second-youngest player ever to start a World Cup finals match when he was named in Javier Aguirre’s lineup against Ecuador.

Eyes now on England

All attention now turns to Mexico’s Round of 16 clash with England on Sunday, July 5, at Estadio Ciudad de México. Mora is widely expected to feature again as he looks to strengthen his growing reputation and further convince Europe’s elite that he is one of Mexican soccer’s most exciting prospects.

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