Rafael Marquez, captain for Mexico’s National Team and Atlas in the Liga MX, was included among 22 people sanctioned for alleged ties to drug trafficking and money laundering in a list published this Wednesday by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) of the US Department of the Treasury. This announcement implies that as a first measure his visa would be canceled. The sanctions also freeze all U.S. assets of the people and entities named and forbid U.S. citizens from doing business with them.
Even though Marquez is innocent until proven guilty, this accusation is very delicate and should be taken seriously. Fans in social media have expressed their disappointment towards the news. It is important to make clear that Rafael Marquez is an idol in Mexico.
Marquez has spoken on different occasions about the importance of building character in people. The Mexican star has also commented strongly against the corruption that invades soccer in Mexico and the world. His career has been one of the most successful in Mexican soccer history. At 38, he has played 4 World Cups as Mexico’s captain. He played for Barcelona during his prime years with Pep Guardiola. The Spanish manager went on to proclaim that with Marquez in the pitch, he could always live in peace.
What does this mean for Rafael Marquez’s career?
Atlas has not made any statements on the Marquez situation. Marquez didn’t show up for practice because he went to Mexico’s Attorney General office voluntarily to give his declaration on the U.S. Department of Treasury accusations. According to the Mexican Soccer Federation code of conduct, if Marquez is found guilty of the accusations, he can face a disaffiliation. This would mean they can end his current contract with his ability to play for the national team.
For a long time, Mexico has depended on Rafa Marquez’s leadership inside and outside the pitch. He is an extension of current Mexico’s manager Juan Carlos Osorio and the main link between the players and the coach. His experience in Barcelona along with the leadership he has acquired throughout the years makes him a living legend almost impossible to replace.
A clear example of his current importance was his goal in Columbus against the USMNT for the World Cup Qualifiers. Rafa has expressed his desire to become the first player in history to captain a national team at five World Cups. As of right now, this dream must be the least of his worries at the moment.