Mexican football continues to export its burgeoning talent to Europe, with 20-year-old Heriberto Jurado becoming the latest player to make this leap. The winger, previously with Necaxa, is set to join Belgium's Cercle Brugge, marking yet another significant transfer from Liga MX to European football.
According to reports from Argentine journalist César Luis Merlo, the transfer was officially agreed upon, with Necaxa receiving 1 million euros for Jurado's departure. The agreement allows the Mexican club to retain a percentage of any future sale, ensuring they could still benefit financially if Jurado continues to develop and attract attention.
Cercle Brugge, founded in 1899 and known as one of the oldest clubs in Belgium, currently sits 11th in the Jupiler Pro League. The team has had its struggles this season, collecting just 28 points over 23 matches, and the addition of Jurado is seen as pivotal as they aim to avoid relegation and improve their season performance. While not one of Belgium's most celebrated teams, Cercle Brugge has won three league titles, with the most recent victory dating back to 1930.
Having debuted with Necaxa during the Apertura 2021 season, Jurado made his name known after showing considerable promise through his performances. During his tenure with the club, he played 84 matches, contributing two goals and seven assists. Despite being mostly utilized under previous management, his playing time diminished under coach Nicolás Larcamón, having recorded just 76 minutes over three matches during the recent Clausura 2025 season. This lack of playing opportunities played a role in Jurado's decision to accept the offer from the Belgian side.
His move to Cercle Brugge isn’t just about playing time; it’s also about progression and realization of his dreams. Jurado has been recognized as one of the promising stars of Mexican football, having participated with youth national teams and attaining international experience through tournaments such as the Toulon Tournament and the Under-20 CONCACAF Championship. His career aspirations now include competing at the highest levels and establishing himself firmly within European football.
The transfer highlights the positive trend of Mexican players succeeding abroad, particularly as Jurado joins fellow countryman César ‘Chino’ Huerta, who recently signed with Anderlecht. Their presence adds to the growing list of Mexican footballers finding opportunities within European leagues, including notable names like Guillermo Ochoa and Carlos Hermosillo.
Jurado's contract with Cercle Brugge will extend until June 2029, signaling the club's commitment to nurturing his talent over the long term. While he adapts to Belgian football, Jurado aims to aid Cercle Brugge as they strive to climb the table and earn competitiveness, instilling hope within fans for a revitalized performance as the season progresses.
With the transfer window opening new doors, Heriberto Jurado's move to Cercle Brugge stands as symbolic of not just personal achievement but also the larger narrative of Liga MX players establishing themselves internationally. Whether this transfer leads to greater success for Jurado and his new club remains to be seen, but there is no doubt about the significant steps he is taking for his career.
Indeed, this transition could significantly boost Jurado's exposure and development, as he takes on the challenge of competing at higher levels, fulfilling both personal ambitions and aspirations for his career. Jurado's story is one to watch closely as he seeks to assert his mark within the European football arena.