'América give me the chance to fulfill my dream of being champion' - New signing José Zúñiga eager to lead Las Águilas back to Liga MX glory

José Zúñiga, nicknamed La Pantera, is facing the biggest challenge of his career: representing Club América, the most decorated team in Liga MX history. Though the 31-year-old Colombian striker has played more games in Mexico’s second division than in the top flight, he now finds himself on the grandest stage of Mexican football.

Zúñiga understands the weight of the opportunity, and he’s embracing it with full ambition.

“I’ve always dreamed of winning a title. I think this club gives me that chance to become a champion, and I’m going to fight for it,” he said in an interview with the club’s media. “I still have many dreams to fulfill, and I believe with this team, I can go very far.”

Zúñiga also emphasized the responsibility that comes with playing for a club of América’s stature, saying he fully understands the winning DNA that defines the institution.

“Commitment, demands, responsibility - we know this is a club used to winning, that never gives up. The fans are demanding; they always want to celebrate and win titles. That’s what this team is about,” he added.

Zúñiga’s journey in Mexican football began in the second division, where he played 104 matches for Dorados de Sinaloa and Potros UAEM. He later featured in 29 games for Querétaro and 53 for Tijuana, where he scored 23 goals, including 12 last season to share the Liga MX Golden Boot.

The Colombian has already played his first minutes with América in their 3-1 victory over Tijuana in Matchday 2. On Sunday, Las Águilas will face Toluca in the Campeón de Campeones match, a clash that carries a sense of revenge after losing the Clausura 2025 final.