Former Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez received a jaw-dropping welcome when he was officially unveiled as a Chivas player once again at the weekend.
It was announced last week that Chicharito is returning to his hometown club after an illustrious career playing in England, Germany, Spain and the United States.
The ‘Little Pea’ was most recently with LA Galaxy in the USA and, now recovered from an ACL injury, he is linking up with his old team in Guadalajara, Mexico.
Hernandez was a hugely popular player there when Sir Alex Ferguson signed him back in 2010 and it is fair to say nothing has changed, judging by his presentation ceremony.
It was reported that Chicha arrived at Akron Stadium in a motorcade and with 40,000 fans waiting for him inside the ground on Saturday night. He was visibly moved to tears during the event and spoke about his emotions towards the club.
“I've had a lump in my throat all day, because returning home the way I have returned and with all their love and affection... I have no words to thank them and speaking of those three personalities [his father and grandfather], three soccer fathers who contributed on and off the field and helped the name of Chivas to reach the top of the world.
“If Chivas is defined by anything, it is in courage, because it has the balls to play with pure Mexicans and I don't care what others do. Chivas is in another race.”
A HEARTFELT MESSAGE
In case you missed it, Sir Alex recorded a special message for his former player to congratulate him on his return to Chivas - and in typically classy fashion.
“Chicharito, it's your old boss here,”
he began. “First of all, I want to congratulate you on your return to your old club, back in Mexico where it all started, where I found you, signed you and you were a fantastic player for us.
“You've had a great career and I think now you're going back to your old club, you've an opportunity to add your experience and give your experience to all of the players there.
“So, regards to your family, have a great time and more goals to come. All the best.”
“Boss, there’s no words to describe how much you mean to me. Being able to say I was one of your players is one of my biggest achievements. THANK YOU!
“And to my other family @ManUtd, thank you for letting me be part of your history. Will love you forever. Once a red always a red.”