It’s official: The best player in Liga MX is a Mexican

Armando González closed out the Apertura 2025 as one of the tournament’s standout stories. At just 22 years old, the Chivas striker established himself as the freshest face in the league, delivering decisive performances that kept Guadalajara afloat during the season’s most critical moments. His breakout didn’t go unnoticed and quickly made him a central figure in the national conversation.

Los Rojiblancos’ young forward shared the Golden Boot with 12 goals, matching the totals of Paulinho and João Pedro. Beyond the numbers, his consistency and impact in big games fueled the belief that Chivas has finally found its new offensive centerpiece. Fans embraced him instantly, and the club proudly showcased a homegrown talent who thrived under pressure.

Still, debate had been simmering ever since the nominees for the league’s top individual honor were announced. The shortlist featured names with vast experience and international pedigree - established stars who also left their mark on the Apertura. That context only intensified the conversation long before the final decision was revealed: González is Liga MX’s player of the tournament.

Who else was in the running for the award?

González’s selection sparked controversy, as he beat out profiles such as Ángel Correa - a World Cup winner with Argentina who impressed in his first tournament with Tigres - and Paulinho, a two‑time Golden Boot winner and back‑to‑back Liga MX champion with Toluca. The award favored immediate impact over hierarchy and résumé. The ballot also included names like:

• Sergio Canales
• Alexis Vega
• Paulinho
• Ángel Correa
• Mourad Maoudi
• Alejandro Zendejas
• Roberto Alvarado
• Carlos Rodríguez
• Marcel Ruiz
• Germán Berterame
• Juan Brunetta
• Ángel Sepúlveda

All of them had on‑field arguments to stake a claim, reinforcing the idea of a tournament with talent spread across multiple fronts.

González’s selection breaks from a trend Liga MX had leaned into in recent seasons. Veteran pedigree and sustained output no longer carry the same weight in the final vote. Chivas celebrates the recognition, while the debate continues between those championing the rise of a new idol and those who felt the award should have tipped toward already established stars.

Related stories

Soccer

New celebrity joins Snoop Dogg, Luka Modric at Swansea City

Soccer

Inter Miami could lose record-breaking forward ahead of 2026

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.