Where Will San Memo Ochoa play this season?
With the recent signings of Edson Alvarez to Ajax and Hector Herrera to Atletico de Madrid, one big Mexican free agent remains unsigned, Guillermo Ochoa. Ochoa, who just turned 34, is coming off a great Gold Cup were his performances against Costa Rica and the USA were fundamental in Mexico lifting the cup. However, unlike his Concacaf counterpart Keylor Navas, PacoMemo hasn’t had an opportunity at a big club. Through his performances in international tournaments, he has earned praise from the likes of Manuel Neuer and multiple others.
After a successful season in which he was voted the team’s player of the season with Belgian club Standard Liege, Ochoa is a free agent looking for a team. As of now, Ochoa has three options: stay with Standard Liege, travel to the Premier League with Watford, or the MLS.
Ochoa can choose to resign with Standard Liege, the team he helped finish third in both the Jupiter League and Championship Playoff. While he has stated it’s time to leave the club, San Memo was chosen the best player by the Belgian team at the end of last season. With PacoMemo, Les Rouges would continue to compete for the top spot in the league next season and be contenders in the playoff as well. Staying in Belgium would also guarantee Ochoa a spot in this seasons Europa League.
PacoMemo could remain in Europe if he chooses to join the English Premier League team, Watford. The Hornets had a decent season finishing in the 11th position last year. Watford also reached the final of the FA Cup, eliminating Raul Jimenez’ Wolverhampton Wanderers in the semifinal before being pummeled by Manchester City 6-0 in the final. Ochoa’s ability and leadership might help Watford get over the hump and fight for a Europa League position next season.
The next option for Guillermo is MLS. Nashville SC and Chicago Fire have been rumored to have an interest in Ochoa. MLS teams in cities with a large Mexican-American population would be great options for Memo, or he could become the face of David Beckham’s expansion franchise Inter Miami CF. While the MLS might be the most lucrative option for Ochoa, success isn’t guaranteed in the league. While Carlos Vela is having an MVP-like season and has been the face of LAFC, Gio dos Santos had a forgettable run in the league.
Ochoa has been trying to obtain an EU passport recently which might indicate his desire to remain in Europe. Other rumors have surfaced linking Ochoa with Porto, Valencia, and Getafe, wherever the flamboyant keeper winds up he’s sure to continue his great performances and spectacular saves.
