Liga MX

Gilberto Mora’s price tag won’t stop his European jump, says Tijuana coach

Xolos coach made it clear that the youngster’s value will not be an obstacle to fulfilling his dream of moving to Europe.

Xolos coach made it clear that the youngster’s value will not be an obstacle to fulfilling his dream of moving to Europe.
Joshua Hernandez
Ciudad de México Update:

The rise of Mexican star Gilberto Mora has been one of the hottest topics in soccer since the 2026 World Cup. His market value — rumored to be around $25 million — has fueled nonstop debate about when he’ll finally make the leap to Europe. But Sebastián “Loco” Abreu has stepped in to shut down the speculation.

In an interview with Línea de 4 on TUDN, the Tijuana coach made it clear that the reported price won’t block Mora’s future abroad when the right moment arrives.

A serious long‑term project

Abreu didn’t mince words when explaining the club’s stance on its brightest homegrown talent.

His value will be high, yes. It’ll be the biggest in Mexican soccer history, absolutely. But there’s also the human side. Xolos — a club outside the national spotlight — would be selling a kid raised here since age 10. That has value too. So let’s stop saying his price will keep him from leaving. That’s not how this will go.”

The coach emphasized that Tijuana fully understands Mora’s growth depends on competing in the world’s top leagues.

Gilberto Mora’s price tag won’t stop his European jump, says Tijuana coach
The young midfielder was valued at $25 million according to Transfermarkt.GUILLERMO ARIAS

Europe keeps watching Mexico’s newest gem

Abreu added that when a serious offer arrives — one backed by a real sporting project — Xolos will evaluate it with openness, prioritizing Mora’s development over pure financial gain.

“The coach who gets him must be ready. His physical condition will matter. If they want a player who runs box‑to‑box nonstop, Gil Mora isn’t that guy. But if they want someone who roams freely, breaks tactical lines, and creates chaos, they’ll enjoy him to the fullest.”

While no official negotiations have been announced, interest from clubs like Benfica and Borussia Dortmund is very real.

The message is clear

For Abreu and Xolos, Mora’s price tag won’t be a barrier. If the right opportunity appears — one that pushes his career forward — the club is ready to listen.

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