Armando Gonzalez 's transfer to Olympiacos has shattered Javier Hernandez 's record for the highest fee received by Chivas de Guadalajara for a player sold to Europe.
Back in 2010, ahead of the FIFA World Cup in South Africa , Hernandez completed his move to Manchester United . His departure from Chivas to the Premier League powerhouse stood as the largest transfer in Mexican soccer history, valued at $7 million.
Sixteen years later, another gifted striker developed at Verde Valle is heading to Europe to prove himself at the highest level. Following an impressive ascent through domestic soccer, Gonzalez touches down in Greece at Olympiacos as the most expensive sale to a European club in Chivas history, as per The Mirror US .
-Credit:John Peters, Manchester United via Getty Images
Known as "La Hormiga," Gonzalez made his senior debut for Chivas in January 2024. Across 59 appearances over the subsequent seasons, the 23-year-old netted 27 goals as his reputation continued to grow, eventually earning him his international debut.
Gonzalez was the Liga MX top scorer in the 2025 Apertura tournament, securing his place in Mexico 's 2026 World Cup squad. However, due to the presence of Raul Jimenez, he was limited to just 14 minutes of action, appearing in the opening victory over South Africa at the Azteca Stadium.
Won over by his performances and intrigued by his ceiling, Olympiacos paid $10 million to land Gonzalez. The deal includes up to $2 million in add-ons, with Chivas retaining a 20 percent sell-on clause.
On Wednesday, Gonzalez made his final visit to the Chivas training ground, participating in practice before bidding farewell to his teammates, coaching staff, management, and supporters. He will depart for Greece soon to join his new club and be formally unveiled as an Olympiacos signing.
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"It's the biggest club in Greece, and it's a challenge I wanted to take on," Gonzalez said at the airport on Thursday. "God willing, I hope to do very well in Europe in the future, and then return to Chivas to become a champion."
One player familiar with making a high-profile transfer from Chivas to Europe is Carlos Salcido . The former Mexico international moved to PSV in 2006, and he's enthusiastic about seeing how Gonzalez will perform in the Greek Super League.
"I'm happy for La Hormiga because I know him inside out, from my son's generation. I've watched him since he was 15 in Chivas' youth teams - I know his evolution, his education, his personality, how focused he is, his strengths, even his weak spots," Salcido said.
He added: "I'm sure this move will do him good, and if it all works out - God willing - we'll see him shine in this league. Trust me, he's got the mentality and the skills to make it."
Gonzalez's move to Europe, which eclipses Hernandez's landmark transfer, could motivate a fresh generation of players in Mexico. Olympiacos begin the new campaign against Atromitos on Saturday, Aug. 22, though that match will arrive too soon for the Mexican following his transfer.
