Sport

Armando González Barcelona’s New Mexican “Gamble” to Succeed Lewandowski?

21.02.2026
Editor edt

Barcelona has reportedly set its sights on Guadalajara’s breakout star, Armando “La Hormiga” González, as a potential long-term successor to Robert Lewandowski.

The 22-year-old Mexican striker has become one of the most talked-about names in North American football, and his sudden link to the Blaugrana suggests Deco is looking for high-value “diamonds in the rough.”

The “Hormiga” Phenomenon

González’s rise at Chivas has been nothing short of meteoric. In the 2025/2026 season, he has transformed from a promising youth product into Mexico’s most lethal domestic striker.

  • The Numbers: He has tallied 17 goals and 1 assist in 24 appearances this season, recently winning the 2025 Apertura Golden Boot with 12 goals.

  • National Recognition: His domestic form earned him his senior Mexico debut in late 2025, and he is now a lock for Javier Aguirre’s 2026 World Cup preparations.

  • Style of Play: Standing at 1.79m, he is described as a “poacher” with elite pressing ability, drawing comparisons to a young Javier “Chicharito” Hernández.

The Transfer Battle

While Barcelona is the biggest name in the mix, they are not alone in their scouting mission.

  • Premier League & SPFL Interest: West Ham United and Celtic have both sent scouts to Guadalajara recently. Celtic, in particular, is reportedly preparing a formal summer bid to bring him to Glasgow as their primary striker.

  • The Chivas Stance: Recognizing his soaring value, Guadalajara recently renewed his contract until December 2029. This gives the Mexican club massive leverage, likely pushing any transfer fee well above his current €7M market valuation.

Barça’s Strategic Move

For Barcelona, González represents a “low-risk, high-reward” alternative to astronomical targets like Erling Haaland.

  • The Transition: With Lewandowski turning 38 this August, Barcelona needs a striker who can learn under the Pole for a year before taking over.

  • Mexican Connection: Barcelona has a history of successful Mexican talent (Rafael Márquez) and a massive fan base in the region, making this a commercial “home run” as well as a sporting one.

Fun Fact: Armando is the son of former professional footballer Armando “Mando” González, who also played for Chivas in the 1990s.