Gilberto Mora made plenty of noise at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, really standing out as one of Mexico’s top players in the tournament. Mora showcased his immense talent at the global competition and is gearing up for a big move to Europe by the end of the next Liga MX season.

The Tijuana Xolos begin play this Thursday, July 16, at the Estadio Caliente as the Aztec Canines host Tigres UANL. Mora has been a vital component of Xolos’ attack since his debut, and this last season, before his departure, is an important one.

The European move for Mora was already guaranteed based on league performances, but his buzz at the World Cup only reinforced that. Reports and rumors are flying in that teams across Europe’s most prestigious leagues are interested in the teenager.

While a big move is all but guaranteed, a strong last season will make the race for the young player far more intriguing.

With Kevin Castaneda’s departure from Club Tijuana, there will be added weight on Mora’s shoulders to carry this offense. Mora will be the lone key playmaker in this attack, as a majority of balls in the offensive half for Xolos will go through him.

Mora has proven that he has the capabilities to lead an offense, and this season will serve as another great test for him. Club Tijuana also has the added pressure of having a productive season in Mora’s final campaign with the club.

Mora is arguably the greatest talent to play with the Border City Dogs, and the franchise would like to see some success out of it.

This is a tough first game of the season as Tigres UANL are one of the title favorites, per usual. Club Tijuana are the underdogs even with the massive home-field advantage, but that factor has the potential to play a significant role in this match.

The Xoloitzcuintles had the fifth-best home record last season, and this included a 1-0 win against Tigres at the Estadio Caliente. The Mictlan has historically been a fortress for the border city team,m and this will be a key factor in this upcoming Apertura 2026.

Mora received a hero’s welcome upon his arrival in Tijuana and has been shown plenty of love by fans across the city. There is even a viral video of the young midfielder being stopped in the middle of traffic by a fan who wanted to meet him.

Mora is one of the most popular Mexican players in the world after this World Cup, and his future is as exciting as anyone.

Francisco Velasco

Francisco, 28, Chula Vista/Tijuana. I have been a Padres fan all my life, did most of the series previews and recaps in the Padres’ 2016 season for EVT. Now I focus more on the local soccer scene. Tijuana Xolos, San Diego FC, San Diego Wave. I have covered Liga MX, MLS, Mexico National Team, USWNT, Copa América and European clubs like Manchester United and Borussia Dortmund.