In the landscape of Mexican football, where creativity in midfield is often prized, Marcel Ruiz has quietly built a reputation as one of the most promising playmakers of his generation. At just 24, the Toluca midfielder already combines maturity, technical polish, and tactical intelligence, qualities that suggest he could become a long-term fixture for El Tri as the 2026 World Cup approaches.
Rising Through Querétaro
Ruiz was born in Mérida, Yucatán, and rose through the academy ranks at Querétaro, a club that has often relied on developing young talent. He made his Liga MX debut as a teenager in 2018 and immediately stood out for his composure on the ball. Coaches and analysts were impressed by his ability to dictate tempo, even at such a young age, and he quickly earned comparisons to some of Mexico’s more established midfield generals.
A move to Tijuana in 2020 gave him a different challenge, where he continued to grow despite inconsistent team performances. But it was his transfer to Toluca in 2022 that unlocked his potential, as he became central to their midfield structure. At the Estadio Nemesio Díez, Ruiz has blossomed into a player capable of dictating matches at the highest level of Liga MX.
Style of Play
Ruiz operates primarily as a central midfielder but has the versatility to play deeper as a regista or higher as an attacking playmaker. His biggest strength is his vision: he sees passing lanes early, threading balls through defensive lines or switching play with accuracy.
Technically, he is polished. His first touch is sharp, his passing crisp, and his decision-making calm under pressure. He excels in possession-oriented teams, where his ability to recycle the ball and create rhythm is invaluable. Defensively, while not the most physical presence, he makes up for it with anticipation and intelligent positioning.
Ruiz is also known for his stamina. He covers ground tirelessly, pressing when needed and recovering quickly to offer passing outlets. That engine, combined with his creativity, makes him a well-rounded modern midfielder.
Contributions to El Tri
Ruiz has featured prominently in Mexico’s youth national teams, including the U20 and U23 setups. His performances there underlined his potential to step into the senior side. While he has not yet become a regular fixture for El Tri, his trajectory suggests that his chance is coming.
For the national team, Ruiz offers something unique: a midfielder who can both control tempo and inject creativity. In matches where Mexico struggles to break down compact defences, Ruiz’s passing range and intelligence could prove decisive.
Mentality and Character
What sets Ruiz apart is his composure. Even as a teenager debuting in Liga MX, he never seemed rushed or overawed. That mental strength has carried into his senior career, where he has shown consistency and resilience despite playing for teams with varying fortunes.
Off the pitch, Ruiz is considered grounded and hardworking. He avoids unnecessary attention and prefers to let his football do the talking. That humility, combined with ambition, makes him a player coaches trust.
Looking Ahead to 2026
By 2026, Ruiz will be entering his prime at 27 — the perfect age for a midfielder to combine physical energy with tactical maturity. His continued development at Toluca, or potentially a move abroad, could elevate him further.
For Mexico, Ruiz represents an option that blends creativity with discipline. While not yet a guaranteed starter, his qualities make him a strong candidate for the World Cup squad. In a tournament where control of midfield is often decisive, his intelligence and vision could be vital.
Conclusion
Marcel Ruiz may not yet be a household name, but his steady rise marks him as one of Mexico’s most exciting midfield prospects. With intelligence, vision, and composure, he has the qualities of a playmaker who can shape matches.
As El Tri prepare for a home World Cup, Ruiz could provide the balance between structure and creativity that every successful team requires. His story is still being written — but the signs suggest it will be an important chapter in Mexico’s footballing future.