On this day in 2001, a young man born in Ocotlán began to write a story of dedication, character, and greatness in the heart of Guadalajara. It was on July 22 when Carlos Salcido took his first steps in the top league, as after two years of intense work in the ranks of Tapatío, his reward came from Óscar Ruggeri, who gave him the opportunity to play 21 minutes in Week 1 of the Winter Tournament against La Piedad, coming on as a substitute for another historic player: Omar Bravo.
That moment was the beginning of a career that transcended borders and marked an era. Yayo de la Torre's vision in 2003 propelled him to become an undisputed starter. Since then, Salcido has become a bastion of Guadalajara: he played in the 2004 Clausura final and was the star of memorable nights in the Copa Libertadores, performances that caught the attention of PSV Eindhoven. In 2006, the Dutch club made history by becoming the first to directly purchase a Mexican footballer.
Although he was not part of the squad that won the 2006 Clausura title, Carlos never stopped feeling part of the Rebaño. From afar, he celebrated that championship with passion, just like any other fan.
After eight years of success in Europe, where he played in the Premier League and Champions League, he returned home to continue making history. His official return was in the 2014 Apertura, on Matchday 1 against Jaguares, and his presence was synonymous with leadership, experience, and commitment.
He was at his best in 2017, when he led the team on its way to the coveted double in the Clausura tournament: Copa MX and Liga MX champions. It was an unforgettable semester in which Salcido shone as a leader, a player, and a multifunctional element.
But his legacy did not stop there. In April 2018, with the AKRON Stadium as a witness and the entire Rojiblanca Nation behind him, Carlos Salcido proudly lifted the Concacaf Champions League, giving the club one of its greatest international achievements.
After his departure in 2018 and his stint in Veracruz, the idol returned to the Rojiblanca Fortress for the last time in the 2019 Apertura. The tribute was worthy of his career: he was greeted with applause, took a photo with the Guadalajara starting lineup, and was lifted up by his former teammates as a sign of the respect and affection he left in every corner of the club.
Today, we commemorate with affection and admiration the anniversary of the debut of a leader, a role model, and a source of pride for the Rojiblancos, who always held high the name of the Rebaño Sagrado and our country wherever he went.
Thank you for everything, Carlos Salcido. Your legacy lives on forever in the heart of Guadalajara.
