In recent 2026 FIFA World Cup match of Mexico vs South Korea, Chicharito, a former Manchester United player impressed the fans and the pundits for his tactical analysis on FOX Sports.
Javier Hernández Balcázar, known as Chicharito, is a Mexican professional footballer and the country’s all-time leading goalscorer with 52 goals in 109 caps.
Renowned for his pace, movement, and finishing, he has played for clubs including Guadalajara, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Bayer Leverkusen, West Ham United, Sevilla, and LA Galaxy, winning titles such as two Premier League championships and the 2011 Gold Cup MVP.
The fans are shocked as well as impressed on how good he was in tactical analysis, wiliness to share honest thoughts with insightful perspectives of players and matches.
Hard to say what the biggest shock of the World Cup has been so far, but Chicharito being a somewhat likeable pundit has to be right up there. pic.twitter.com/idQeuDRPsO
— Onina Batstenius ⭐️⭐️🌎 (@Iagoonerbeach) June 22, 2026
Chicharito is working alongside hosts like Rebecca and analysts like Thierry Henry (former French international) with alongside John Obi Mikel, Thiago, Peter Schmeichel, Clint Dempsey, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and so on.
One of the most important analyses he gave at FOX was about the USMNT as they won two games in a row and qualified for the round of 32.
Hernández analyzed the USMNT’s precarious position heading into a match against Türkiye. He noted the pressure the American squad faced with multiple key players on yellow cards
Historically, Chicharito has always maintained deep respect for the USA-Mexico rivalry. He has repeatedly emphasized that these matchups bring out high emotions but ultimately provide joy to fans on both sides of the border
Commenting on the broader CONCACAF landscape, he stressed that teams from the region need realistic, grounded expectations. Instead of trying to mimic European or South American styles of play, he argues the USMNT and Mexico must maximize their unique athletic qualities and win games however they can
John Obi Mikel, Thiago, and Chicharito is such an elite panel by Fox. Way better than Henry Zlatan and Lalas.
— ghgghhh (@whynotboi1) June 22, 2026
Fans also noticed his clear pronounciation and accent while speaking English, even though he’s Mexican.
Chicharito being put in a positive light is especially impressive as he had lot of troubles/controversies recently.
He faced major recent backlash when he posted controversial social media videos on Instagram about gender roles in July 2025.
His remarks criticized modern women for “eradicating masculinity” and were widely condemned as sexist, drawing direct criticism from Mexico’s president.
And eventually the Mexican Football Federation (FMF) handed a fine and a warning to the former international.
After amid heavy backlash, Chicharito issued a public statement apologizing for his remarks, stating he “deeply regretted any confusion or discomfort” his words may have caused.
But now, he is again getting attention worldwide but for all good reasons now. He is changing reputation after his sexist comments and is winning the hearts of the football fans.
