Jorge Campos, one of the most colorful people to have existed in the world of soccer, just turned 49 today. That’s right, 49. The Mexican goalkeeper during the 1994 and 1998 World Cup continues to be involved in the soccer today, particularly through his role of commentator for TV Azteca Deportes.
In order to render some tribute for the most epic goalkeeper, striker, ladies man, and our hero, here are six facts you might not now about El Brody:
1
He tried to make himself look taller in team photos.
At 5′ 8″, it goes without saying that Jorge Campos was not the tallest of goalies, or players, for that matter. So in order to appear taller in the official team photos before every game, El Brody would step on and balance himself on top of a soccer ball. Just take a look at this picture and focus on the area behind Cuauhtémoc Blanco’s right foot.
2
His colorful outfits were inspired by the town of Acapulco.
In an interview with Remezcla, El Brody stated that the idea behind his outfits came from the colors that are commonly used in the beach town of Acapulco.
3
He actually debuted as a striker.
Jorge Campos made his professional debut as a striker and not as a goalkeeper, as he is better remembered, because Adolfo Ríos was the starting goalie for Pumas at the time. El Brody scored 31 goals in his first stint with Pumas from 1988 to 1995. Later in his career, he would sometimes switch positions from goalie to striker. Manuel Neuer might be good with his feet, but he’s got nothing on El Brody.
4
He was the first Mexican player to be signed by Nike.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hwq6QXvhXEY
El Brody’s talent, combined with his flashy, self-designed outfits, made him a hard-to-miss soccer personality. His popularity was so big he was chosen as the goalkeeper for Nike’s 1996 Good vs. Evil commercial, along with the best international players of the time: Paolo Maldini, Eric Cantona, Luís Figo, Patrick Kluivert, and Ronaldo.
5
He was ranked third best goalie in the world.
Just before the 1994 World Cup, where Mexico lost in penalty kicks against Bulgaria in the second round game, El Brody was considered by FIFA as the third best goalkeeper in the world. He was invited to play on the Rest of the World Team against major European clubs such as Real Madrid several times.