Armando “Hormiga” González has taken the next big step in his career, trading the red and white of Guadalajara for the red and white of Olympiacos. The 23-year-old Mexican forward completed his move to the Greek powerhouse after Chivas agreed to a transfer worth $12 million, one of the most significant sales in the club’s recent history.
González flew to Greece to undergo medical examinations and begin training under head coach José Luis Mendilibar, who specifically requested the striker to bolster his attacking options. Olympiacos, the most decorated club in Greek football, is preparing for a new campaign, and the Mexican’s arrival adds both firepower and flexibility to their frontline.
A debut date on the horizon
While Olympiacos opens their Super League season on August 22 against Atromitos at the Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium, González will not feature in that match. International registration formalities and the need to acclimatize mean the coaching staff has mapped out a dedicated training plan to get him up to speed. The tentative target for his official debut is Saturday, August 29, when the team faces their next league fixture.
“I’m grateful for the trust the club has shown in me,” González said in a brief statement upon arrival. “I’m here to work hard and help the team win titles.”
The financial breakdown
The transfer represents a major financial win for Chivas, who have long prided themselves on developing homegrown talent. The $12 million fee is among the highest the club has received for a player in recent years. Crucially, Chivas negotiated a 20 percent sell-on clause, meaning they will benefit financially if González is sold to another club in the future. This structure reflects the board’s confidence in the striker’s potential to grow in European football.
For context, this deal places González among the notable exports from Liga MX in recent memory. While it doesn’t top the all-time list—Liga MX's biggest transfer fees remain led by the likes of Rodolfo Pizarro—it underscores the value of Chivas’s youth system.
A heartfelt farewell
Before boarding his flight at Guadalajara International Airport, González took time to address the fans and media who gathered to see him off. He expressed deep gratitude to the Chivas supporters, emphasizing that he carries the club’s values with him to Europe.
“I will always be grateful to Chivas for everything they gave me. The fans have been incredible, and I hope to make them proud,” he said.
González also made it clear that his focus is now on establishing himself in European football, but he didn’t hide his long-term ambition to return to Guadalajara one day and help the club win a Liga MX title.
His journey from the Chivas academy to one of Greece’s biggest clubs is a testament to his hard work and the growing reputation of Mexican talent abroad. As he settles into his new surroundings, all eyes will be on his adaptation to a new league, a new culture, and a new style of play.
For fans back in México, the hope is that Hormiga González’s move will open more doors for young players from the region. His success could inspire a new generation, much like other Mexican exports who have thrived in Europe.
While the immediate focus is on his debut, the broader narrative is about a player who has taken a bold step to chase his dreams. Whether he becomes a star in Piraeus or eventually returns to Guadalajara, his journey is one to watch.
