Alex Garzon Ecuadorian footballer, attacking midfielder Date of Birth: 09.07.1968 Country: Ecuador

1. Alex Aguinaga: Ecuadorian Football Legend and Coach
2. Necaxa Dominance
3. Later Career
4. International Career
5. Coaching Career

Alex Aguinaga: Ecuadorian Football Legend and Coach

Alex Aguinaga, an Ecuadorian attacking midfielder, began his career at Deportivo Quito's football academy. By the age of 16, he was playing in the main team, where he made over 150 appearances and scored approximately 50 goals. Aguinaga's impressive performance caught the attention of European scouts, but it was Mexican club Necaxa that acquired his services in 1989.

Necaxa Dominance

Aguinaga spent the majority of his playing career at Necaxa, becoming a club legend over 14 seasons. He won three league titles with the club, including the 1995 championship where he scored a crucial goal in the final against Cruz Azul. In 1999, he led Necaxa to their first-ever CONCACAF Champions League title, scoring a goal in the final against Alajuelense. Aguinaga also made a significant impact at the 2000 Club World Cup, scoring two goals to help his team secure third place.

Despite interest from European giants like Inter Milan and Real Madrid, Aguinaga remained loyal to Necaxa. At the age of 35, he left the club after over 500 appearances and approximately 100 goals. During his time in Mexico, Aguinaga also acquired Mexican citizenship.

Later Career

In 2003, Aguinaga briefly played for Cruz Azul, making 13 appearances before returning to Ecuador to join LDU Quito. He spent a season with his boyhood club, winning the Ecuadorian championship.

International Career

Aguinaga made his international debut for Ecuador in 1987 at the age of 18. He captained his country for many years and played in three Copa America tournaments. In 2001, his assist for Iván Kaviedes helped Ecuador qualify for their first-ever FIFA World Cup in 2002. Aguinaga made three appearances at the tournament in South Korea and Japan.

Coaching Career

After retiring in 2005, Aguinaga worked as an assistant coach for Club América in Mexico. He later managed Barcelona Guayaquil and LDU Quito.