Manchester United has decided not to pursue the young Mexican football sensation Gilberto Mora, according to British media reports.

The Mirror revealed that Manchester United scouts have been monitoring the 17-year-old midfielder from Xolos de Tijuana for the past six months. However, despite their interest in emerging talents worldwide, the club’s co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is reportedly unwilling to engage in a bidding war for Mora.

Mora’s performances at the 2026 World Cup have attracted attention from several top clubs, including Manchester City, Chelsea, Real Madrid, and Barcelona. The young player has become one of the standout revelations of the Mexican National Team during the tournament, earning the trust of coach Javier Aguirre under intense pressure.

At just 17 years and 259 days old, Mora made history during Mexico’s recent 2-0 victory over Ecuador by starting in a knockout stage match. This feat made him the second youngest player ever to start in a World Cup elimination game, only behind Brazilian legend Pelé, who did so at 17 years and 241 days in the 1958 Sweden World Cup.

Mora has logged a total of 155 minutes on the pitch throughout the 2026 World Cup, showcasing his potential on football’s biggest stage.

For Mexican football fans and young talents alike, Mora’s rise signals a promising future, while the shifting interests of European giants highlight the competitive nature of global football scouting.