José Manuel “Moyo” Contreras announced this Friday, May 1, his retirement from professional football through his social networks in an emotional message that he recorded from around the Cementos Progreso Stadium, a stage that has been his home for much of his career.
The 40-year-old Guatemalan midfielder, born in Atescatempa, Jutiapa, confirmed that he will play his last games as a professional with Comunicaciones at the end of Clausura 2026, thus closing a career full of titles and historic moments for Guatemalan soccer.
In his message, Moyo did not hide the emotion he feels about taking this step. “There are dates that remain recorded forever, for me my debut and every moment that I had the honor of wearing this shirt”he expressed, who also made clear the pride he felt throughout his entire career. “I always proudly represented the greatest team in my country”said Contreras in a message that quickly generated a wave of nostalgic reactions among the cream of the fans and the world of Guatemalan soccer.
The announcement also included a message of gratitude to everyone who was part of his journey. “I will never forget this exciting career full of glory. I want to thank the club, the international and national clubs of which I was a part, my family above all, who have been my driving force, and of course thanks to you, the fans, for your love from day one,” said Moyo, who also announced that in July he will organize a farewell match with players he considers family, with more details to be confirmed soon.
Moyo Contreras arrived at Comunicaciones in 2006 and since then he became one of the most important references of the albo club. The midfielder also had spells at Antigua GFC, Universidad de Concepción in Chile, Xelajú MC, CA Fénix of Uruguay and Arsenal of Argentina on loan.
Titles of José Manuel Conteras
- Concacaf Cup 2021-22
- Clausura National League: 2022, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2011
- National Apertura League: 2024, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2011
“Moyo” has won a total of 11 titles including a Concacaf Cup, five Clausura championships and five Apertura championships, becoming one of the most winning players in the history of the Albo club and of Guatemalan soccer in general.
At 40 years old and with a career that spanned more than two decades in professional soccer, José Contreras will say goodbye to soccer in the same way he experienced it: with the Communications shirt and the affection of a fan who adopted him as one of their own from day one. “As I always dreamed of, I am retiring in the club that is my home”closed his message.
The farewell match is scheduled for July and will feature players Moyo considers part of his football family. The details of the event will be announced soon, in what promises to be a special night for Guatemalan soccer and for all the fans who enjoyed the career of one of the most talented midfielders the country has ever produced.