Chatón says goodbye to professional football at 32, and GOAL takes a look back at a career that left a lasting mark on Mexican soccer.
Jorge Enríquez, widely known as Chatón, played a pivotal role as a midfielder for the national team, helping Mexico secure the gold medal at the London 2012 Olympics and leading Chivas for seven seasons. Recently, he announced an end to his playing days, choosing retirement amid personal challenges that he has faced lately.
In a morning message shared with followers on social media, the former national team standout spoke candidly about losing something valuable and recognizing a period of change. He thanked the clubs and teammates who were part of his journey, adding a formal note of gratitude to everyone who supported him along the way.
At 32, Enríquez concluded his professional playing career with Venados de Mérida, a club competing in the Liga de Expansión MX. His career highlights include the Olympic gold in 2012 and a strong showing at the 2011 FIFA U-20 World Cup held in Colombia, among other memorable moments. GOAL provides a comprehensive recap of his journey through the sport, highlighting both triumphs and turning points along the way.
WHY WAS IT REMOVED?
The precise reasons behind the decision to retire have not been publicly disclosed in detail. In his social post, Enríquez suggested that a difficult personal period was the primary driver behind stepping away from professional football, signaling a turning point rather than simply the end of a competitive chapter.
WHICH TEAMS DID HE PLAY FOR?
Throughout his senior career, Enríquez wore the colors of several teams, with the most notable stint being at Chivas, where he spent seven seasons contributing to the club’s ambitions and cultivating a reputation as a reliable central midfielder. His later professional chapter with Venados de Mérida added another layer to a career defined by perseverance and on-field intelligence.
HOW MANY TITLES DID HE WIN?
Among Enríquez’s most cherished achievements is the Olympic gold medal won with Mexico at London 2012, a moment that encapsulated the promise of a generation. He also earned recognition at youth level with the third-place finish at the 2011 Under-20 World Cup in Colombia, underscoring a track record of success across different competitions. His career is remembered for its moments of brilliance, leadership on the field, and a steady commitment to representing his country with pride.
OTHER PERFORMANCE
Beyond the headlines, Enríquez demonstrated consistency in his midfield role, contributing to team dynamics with defensive coverage, ball distribution, and strategic movement. His experiences abroad and at the club level helped shape a player who could adapt to varying tactical demands, maintain composure under pressure, and mentor younger teammates as his career progressed.