From Oklahoma Roots to Liga MX: Alex Gutierrez’s Unexpected Rise

In a world where football dreams are usually forged from childhood in elite academies, Alex Gutiérrez has written a story that feels straight out of a movie. 

At just 17 years old, the Oklahoma-born striker went from playing in an ECNL team to debuting in Liga MX with Club Necaxa, winning the U-17 championship, and earning a call-up to Mexico’s youth national team — all within a single year. His debut against Pachuca back on April 11 marked the beginning of a career that already has Mexico talking.

Kicking the Ball in Oklahoma

Alex Gutiérrez, born on July 1, 2008, grew up in an environment where soccer wasn’t the main sport. In Oklahoma, football and basketball dominate, but for Alex, the ball at his feet was always his passion. With dual nationality (Mexican and American), he played for the Oklahoma Celtics in the ECNL, standing out thanks to his height (6-foot-1), goal-scoring instinct and versatility in attack. But his life changed dramatically in June 2024, when Club Necaxa discovered him.

The story has a touch of destiny. During a tournament in the United States, Necaxa scouts were impressed by his movement off the ball and finishing ability. Alex was invited to trial with the club’s academy in Aguascalientes, and his family, aware of the opportunity, supported his move to Mexico.

Moving to Mexico

In June 2024, Gutiérrez officially joined Necaxa’s U-17 team. His adaptation was remarkably quick. Within months, through hard work, respect and humility, he became the offensive leader of the squad and a standout in the club’s academy.

The end of 2024 was like a fairy tale for Alex. In December, Necaxa U-17 reached the Liga MX Academy Final against Rayados de Monterrey, with Gutiérrez playing a decisive role. He scored key goals, including the equalizer in the first leg (2–2), leading the team from the front as they went on to win the championship.

His talent didn’t go unnoticed by the Mexican Football Federation (FMF). In November 2024, he was called up to the Mexico U-17 national team for the Torneo del Sol 2025, as well as international friendlies against Canada, Guatemala and Costa Rica, preparing for the CONCACAF U-17 Championship. Gutiérrez will continue to make his mark on the national team after being named to Mexico's roster for the upcoming FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar.

Making his Pro Debut

The defining moment arrived on April 11 during Clausura 2025 Matchday 15. Necaxa hosted Pachuca, and head coach Nicolás Larcamón decided to give the youngster his chance. At 16 years and 9 months old, Alex came off the bench in the second half with the game tied 3–3. His appearance made him the second player born in 2008 to debut in Liga MX, a milestone that highlights his precocious rise.

On July 17, 2025, Gutiérrez took another major step in his young career. His transfer to Cruz Azul was no coincidence. Larcamón, who had just taken over as Cruz Azul manager after his stint with Necaxa, specifically requested Gutiérrez’s inclusion in the deal that also brought José Paradela to La Máquina, a move valued at around $10 million. According to multiple reports, Gutiérrez joined on a permanent transfer, though he will split his time between the academy and first team to continue developing.

Gutiérrez’s story is a reminder that talent can emerge from the most unexpected places — like the fields of Oklahoma. With an imposing frame, a refined left foot and a humble mindset, he has everything it takes to succeed at a club as demanding as Cruz Azul, while dreaming of representing Mexico at the next U-17 World Cup.