Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernández, the renowned Mexican striker, made a triumphant return to his boyhood club, Chivas, in the Liga MX. This marked his second debut for the club, fourteen years after departing for Europe and Manchester United. Hernández, who recently rejoined Chivas after his contract with the MLS’ LA Galaxy expired, received an ecstatic welcome from the home supporters as he appeared as a substitute against Pumas UNAM.

The 35-year-old’s return to action comes after recovering from a torn anterior cruciate ligament injury that cut short his tenure with the Galaxy. During his time with the MLS team, Hernández netted 39 goals in 82 appearances and secured an All-Star appearance in 2022. Prior to his stint in the U.S., the prolific striker showcased his talent across Europe, representing clubs such as Manchester United, Real Madrid, Sevilla, West Ham United, and Bayer Leverkusen, where he clinched two Premier League titles. Notably, Hernández commenced his professional career with Chivas in 2006.

Recognized as the all-time leading goalscorer for Mexico’s men’s national team, Hernández boasts an impressive record of 52 goals in 109 appearances. However, he has not featured for El Tri since 2019. Upon Hernández’s entry into the game against Pumas UNAM, Chivas had already secured a 3-1 victory, with goals from U.S. men’s national team winger Cade Cowell, Antonio Briseño, and Víctor Guzmán. As the current Clausura season progresses, Chivas currently occupies the seventh position in the standings, amassing 15 points.