Carlos Reinoso
The Chilean legend who became one of Club América's most iconic foreign players, scoring 96 goals in 364 league appearances.
Carlos Enzo Reinoso Valdenegro, born March 7, 1946, is a Chilean former footballer and manager widely regarded as one of the greatest players in Club América history. He began his career at Audax Italiano before joining América in 1970, where he played for nine years.
- Affiliation
- Club América
- Era
- 1970 to 1979
- Status
- Retired Legend
- Key Achievement
- Copa Interamericana Winner (1978)
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
Reinoso joined his boyhood club Audax Italiano at age 15, playing over 150 games before moving to Mexico. At América, he made his debut in a league match against Atlante in 1970. He went on to play 364 league matches (and 396 across all competitions) for the Mexican club, winning the league in 1970–71 and 1975–76, the Copa México in 1973–74, a Campeón de Campeones in 1975–76, the CONCACAF Champions' Cup in 1977, and a Copa Interamericana in 1978. He also played one season with Deportivo Neza in 1979 before retiring.
In Their Own Story
Reinoso's journey from Chile to Mexico defined his career. Scouted by América in 1970, he quickly became a cornerstone of the team, contributing to seven major trophies during his nine-year tenure. His impact was so significant that he remains the foreigner with the most games played for Club América and sits as the club's seventh-highest scorer of all time. After retiring from playing, he immediately began a coaching career, eventually managing América himself.
Reader's Guide
Carlos Reinoso played for Club América from 1970 to 1979, winning two league titles, one Copa México, one Campeón de Campeones, one CONCACAF Cup, and the Copa Interamericana. He made his international debut with Chile in 1966, earning 34 caps and scoring 7 goals before retiring from national duty in 1977 after appearing at the 1974 FIFA World Cup and 1975 Copa America. As a manager, he won two league titles (including the 1983–84 title with América) and the Clausura 2016 Copa MX with Veracruz.
Did You Know?
- He appeared in 364 league matches for Club América (396 across all competitions), a remarkable tally for a foreign player in his era.
- With 96 goals, he is not among the club's top 10 all-time scorers.
- His nickname 'El Gran Chaparral' was given by journalist Ángel Fernández due to his short height and great football qualities.
- He won two league titles in Mexico's second level while managing León and San Luis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Carlos Reinoso?
Carlos Enzo Exzequiel Reinoso Valdenegro was a Chilean footballer born in 1945 who began his career at Audax Italiano before joining Club América. He is widely regarded by fans as the greatest player in the club's history.
What records does Carlos Reinoso hold?
He remains the highest-scoring foreigner for the team with 95 goals and holds the title of the most capped foreign player. These statistics highlight his immense contribution during his nine-year tenure.
When did Carlos Reinoso play for Club América?
Reinoso played for the club from 1970 to 1979, spending a total of nine seasons with the organization. This era is considered one of his most defining periods in professional football.
What major trophy did Carlos Reinoso win?
His key achievement includes winning the Copa Interamericana in 1978, which stands out as a highlight of his career. This victory helped solidify his status during that successful decade.
Why is Carlos Reinoso important to Club América?
He is celebrated for defining foreign success at the franchise and maintaining legendary status long after retirement. His impact on the club's history ensures he remains a central figure in fan discussions today.
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