A 30-yard strike against Heracles Almelo on 25 November 2008 marked the first goal for Francisco Javier Rodríguez as a member of the Dutch club PSV Eindhoven. Known by the nickname Maza, referencing his hometown of Mazatlán, he built a career as a robust centre-back across domestic leagues in Mexico, the Netherlands, and Germany.
Early Success at Guadalajara
Beginning his professional journey under manager Hans Westerhof, Rodríguez debuted for Guadalajara during the 2002 Apertura tournament. He became a fixture in the squad, eventually helping the team secure the Apertura 2006 title. In the decisive final against Toluca on 10 December 2006, the team won 2–1, achieving a 3–2 aggregate victory that earned Guadalajara their eleventh league championship.
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In May 2008, Rodríguez joined PSV Eindhoven for a transfer fee of US$1.8 million. He shared the dressing room with Carlos Salcido and eventually secured a starting position for both Eredivisie and Europa League matches by the 2009–10 season. His tenure in Europe continued in July 2011, when he moved to the Bundesliga on a three-year contract with VfB Stuttgart. He made his league debut in a 3–0 win over Schalke 04, providing an assist to Cacau.
Domestic Rivalries and National Duty
Returning to Mexico in January 2013, Rodríguez signed with América. By winning the Clausura 2013 title with his new side, he became the first individual to claim league championships with both América and Guadalajara. His international service included appearances in the 2006, 2010, and 2014 FIFA World Cup tournaments. During his tenure with the national team, he also faced controversy in 2011 after testing positive for Clenbuterol, though he was later exonerated when FIFA determined the substance resulted from contaminated meat.
Fast facts
- Born: 20 October 1981, Mazatlán, Mexico
- Professional debut: Apertura 2002
- PSV Eindhoven transfer fee: US$1.8 million
- Bundesliga debut: 6 August 2011
- 2006 FIFA World Cup appearance: vs. Portugal
- 2015 CONCACAF Gold Cup winner
- Championships: Apertura 2006, Clausura 2013
Questions readers ask
Why is he known as Maza?
The nickname is a short form derived from his birthplace of Mazatlán, Sinaloa.
Did he play in the 2014 FIFA World Cup?
Yes, he was a key central defender for Mexico alongside Rafael Márquez and Hector Moreno.
