Mexico City – In a surprising development announced during the Club América versus Necaxa match broadcast on , veteran Mexican football icon Marco Antonio “El Maguito” Ruiz is set to return to European football. The announcement overshadowed other developments in the match, including Club América’s 2-0 victory and came alongside confirmation of Álvaro Fidalgo’s departure from the club.
The return of Ruiz, a celebrated figure in Mexican football, marks a significant moment in his career. Details regarding the specific European club he will join were not immediately available, but the news has generated considerable excitement among fans. Ruiz’s previous stint in European football established him as a player capable of competing at a high level, and his return will be closely watched.
Simultaneously, Club América confirmed the long-rumored departure of Spanish midfielder Álvaro Fidalgo, who is set to join Real Betis in Spain. Fidalgo, who has also acquired Mexican citizenship, confirmed his decision in a press conference, stating it was a personal decision
and acknowledging that time will tell whether I was right or not, if anyone feels disappointed with the decision, I’m really sorry.
His contract with Club América was due to expire on .
Fidalgo’s departure comes at a potentially challenging time for Club América. The team is currently navigating a period of inconsistent form, and Fidalgo’s absence could be a significant blow, according to observers. The match against Necaxa presented an opportunity to regain momentum, but the focus was inevitably drawn to the player’s impending exit. The situation highlights the complexities of modern football, where contractual decisions can significantly impact both players and clubs.
Despite the circumstances surrounding his departure, Fidalgo expressed a desire to potentially return to Club América in the future. He emphasized the affection he felt from the fans, stating, It’s not a goodbye forever. You can feel the affection from the fans. I made mistakes at the club and, even so, the vast majority was still supporting me. I always felt loved.
This sentiment was echoed by the club’s acknowledgement of the player from the stands during the Necaxa match, a gesture of appreciation for his contributions.
Fidalgo’s recent performances for Club América included three appearances in the 2026 Clausura tournament, with his last match being a 0-0 draw against Club Pachuca on . Prior to his departure, he was observed signing shirts for fans at the Club América facilities, signaling a farewell to the team and its supporters. He is expected to travel to Seville to finalize his transfer to Real Betis before the winter transfer window closes.
The reasons behind Fidalgo’s absence from the starting lineup in the match against Necaxa remain unclear. Reports suggest it was not due to injury or physical concerns, leading to speculation about a possible connection to his impending transfer. The club and coaching staff have remained largely silent on the matter, fueling further rumors of his departure. Sources indicate that Fidalgo has long held a desire to return to European football, and his name has been linked to several clubs in recent weeks.
This situation is not unprecedented for Club América, which has historically faced similar challenges when key players have been linked with moves to European clubs. The club’s ability to maintain stability and leadership within the team during such periods will be crucial as it navigates the remainder of the Clausura 2026 tournament. The potential loss of a player like Fidalgo, who provides both skill and continuity, could significantly impact the team’s performance.
The departure of Fidalgo and the return of Ruiz represent a significant shift in the landscape of Mexican football. While Fidalgo’s move to Real Betis signifies a loss of talent for Club América, Ruiz’s return to Europe offers a new chapter in his distinguished career. Both developments are likely to have ripple effects throughout the Liga MX, as clubs adjust to the changing dynamics of the league.
The timing of these announcements, coinciding with a match broadcast, underscores the high-profile nature of both players and the intense media scrutiny surrounding Club América. The club’s handling of the situation will be closely monitored by fans and analysts alike, as it seeks to navigate a period of transition and maintain its competitive edge.
