Biography
Maynor Alexis Figueroa Róchez was born on May 2, 1983, in Jutiapa, Honduras. He became one of Central America's top defenders, able to play both as a left-back and center-back. He started his professional career in Honduras before moving to English football, where he gained the most recognition.
Figueroa's standout club achievements were with Wigan Athletic in the Premier League. During his time with Wigan, he made 179 Premier League appearances and was a key part of their defense. His time at Wigan peaked in 2013 when he helped the team win the FA Cup in a memorable final against Manchester City. This win was especially remarkable because Wigan was relegated from the Premier League in the same season.
After his success at Wigan, Figueroa continued playing in the Premier League with Hull City, further increasing his number of top-flight appearances. He played over 180 matches in the Premier League, making him one of the few Central American players to reach such numbers in England's leading competition. His reliability in defense and his occasional attacking plays from the full-back position made him an important player during his time in English football.
Internationally, Figueroa had an impressive run with Honduras over nearly two decades. He made his debut in 2003 and earned 181 caps, competing in major tournaments like two FIFA World Cups and seven CONCACAF Gold Cups. He was also part of the team at the 2012 Summer Olympics, showcasing Honduras on a global stage. Figueroa's long career with the national team, lasting until 2022, showed his consistent performance and key role in Honduran football over several generations.
Before Fame
Growing up in Jutiapa, Honduras, Figueroa rose to prominence when Central American players were starting to get more attention in international football. As he developed, Honduras was becoming a stronger team in CONCACAF, frequently qualifying for major tournaments.
During Figueroa's early years, it became more common for players to move from Honduran domestic football to European leagues, with scouts focusing more on Central America for skilled defenders. His technical skills and physical qualities as a left-footed defender helped him move from local football to the challenging English Premier League.
Key Achievements
- Won the 2013 FA Cup with Wigan Athletic
- Made 179 Premier League appearances for Wigan Athletic
- Earned 181 caps for the Honduras national team between 2003-2022
- Participated in two FIFA World Cups (2010, 2014)
- Appeared in seven CONCACAF Gold Cup tournaments
Did You Know?
- 01.He was part of the Wigan Athletic team that won the FA Cup in 2013 while being relegated from the Premier League in the same season
- 02.Figueroa appeared in seven CONCACAF Gold Cup tournaments, spanning from 2003 to 2019
- 03.He represented Honduras at both the 2010 World Cup in South Africa and the 2014 World Cup in Brazil
- 04.His 181 international caps make him one of the most capped players in CONCACAF history
- 05.Figueroa was part of the Honduras Olympic football team at the 2012 London Games