Mexico wants to attract players from Europe

Mikel Arriola, president of Liga MX, claimed this Tuesday that it is in the institution's interest to attract European players to Mexico, at the same time as the Mexicans are emigrating to foreign leagues.

"For the first time in its history, the Leagues Cup is going to be played in the United States during one month with all the teams from Liga MX facing all the teams of the MLS. The owners will have the opportunity to watch players there", answered Arriola after being questioned by 'EFE'.

Mexican football has attracted names such as the Spaniard Pep Guardiola, the Brazilians Ronaldinho and Bebeto, the Chilean Ivan Zamorano, and the Italian World Cup winner Mauro Camoranesi, amongst others, and according to Arriola there is interest from other quality people.

Arriola recalled how the last MLS stars v Liga MX stars match was viewed in 36 countries and broke the ratings record for the all star game in the United States. This indicates that it is a good opportunity to see European players and what Mexico can show to the world.

In reference to the strategies of attracting European players, the president explained that the market is full of alternatives such as young players in the under 13 and 15 categories. And, risk-sharing projects can be established with European clubs, as long as minors are protected.

"If we have 32 players in Europe, why not have 60-70 in years to come; doubling should be the short and long term strategy", he said.

Mexico's current stars who feature in the European leagues include: Raul Jimenez of Wolves in the Premier League. Jesus Corona of Sevilla, Hector Herrera of Atletico Madrid, and Nestor Araujo of Celta Vigo, all play in Spain. Finally, Hirving Lozano and Johan Vasquez play in Italy for Napoli and Genoa respectively.