Mexico’s teenage midfielder Gilberto Mora—the youngest player at the 2026 FIFA World Cup—has put an end to transfer rumors linking him to Real Madrid by signing a three-year contract extension with Liga MX side Club Tijuana.
The 17-year-old, who made his debut for Mexico at only 16 in January 2025, has garnered attention from several top European clubs, including Madrid, Barcelona, Manchester City, and AC Milan. However, despite possible post-World Cup opportunities with Champions League contenders, Mora has opted to extend his stay at Tijuana and has been given the team’s No. 10 jersey.
According to sources, Mora’s new contract includes a “highly tailored and clearly structured release mechanism,” which accounts for potential bids during the contract period. His representative, Rafaela Pimenta, stated that the agreement creates “a clear pathway for opportunities ahead.”
“I am very thankful to Club Tijuana,” Mora expressed. “This club has significantly contributed to my development as both a player and a person.”
“This spurs me on to work even harder and strive for improvement every day. My current focus is on supporting the team and giving my all for Mexico in this World Cup.”
As he heads into the World Cup—where co-host Mexico will face South Africa in the opening match on Thursday—Mora has already made history as the youngest senior international for Mexico, the youngest goalscorer in Liga MX, and the youngest player of any nationality to win a senior international tournament after helping Mexico secure the Concacaf Gold Cup against the United States last year at just 16 years and 265 days old.
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“Gilberto embodies the finest qualities of Club Tijuana,” stated club president Jorge Alberto. “He is an exceptionally talented player.
This is a landmark agreement for our club. We recognize the responsibility that comes with nurturing a talent like Gilberto. Our decisions have always aligned with what is best for both the player and the club as he progresses on his journey.”