Mexico's Atlante have long had a reputation for spotting talent, and for years now have been bringing in unheralded players from abroad who have later blossomed at the club. Into this category fall Luis Gabriel Rey, Gustavo Biscayzacu and Federico Vilar, just three players to have written their names large in the history of the Potros de Hierro (Iron Colts).

Yet in spite of this reputation, many in Mexican football were sceptical when Giancarlo Maldonado was unveiled as Atlante's new striker six months ago. Being a native of Venezuela, a country without a great footballing tradition, and signed from modest Chilean outfit O'Higgins, it was hardly surprising that many observers called into question the pedigree of the 25-year-old.

However, just six months later, fans of the Cancun-based side have taken to chanting the name of their latest idol. In his first season at the club, Giancarlo has helped fire Atlante to the coveted league title, something his predecessors had been unable to do for 14 long years. To be precise, he racked up 15 goals during the regular league season and a further three during the playoffs, including, crucially, one in the final against Pumas. After securing the title, Maldonado understandably received the adulation of a euphoric public in Cancun, who could never have imagined they would be celebrating a league championship in the club's first year in the city.

After the game, Maldonado had this to say: "I'm thrilled about this. We shared a very special day with our fans, who have been unwavering in their support. There were huge numbers out on the streets, and when we paraded afterwards by bus, the amount of people who surrounded us was truly impressive." So what was the key to success for the Venezuelan front man, and how did he avoid the adaptation problems that have dogged some of his more illustrious colleagues from abroad? "Well, I felt comfortable in the team from day one. They're an excellent group of guys and there was a really good atmosphere. The success we've had is down to all the hard work we've put in since the start of the campaign," says the player.

Looking to the future
Of course, his stellar performances have not gone unnoticed in Europe, where more than one club have come knocking. So far, though, the player has not been tempted. "I'm under contract and feel right at home here," the striker insists. Club president Jose Antonio Garcia is also keen to hold onto the player and says: "There have been offers for him, but he's going nowhere. Maldonado has proved to be a key player at crucial moments."

As for his immediate goals, well among them is the desire to repeat this season's heroics with Atlante and to help Venezuela realize their dream of making it to a FIFA World Cup™ finals. At present the Vinotinto lie fifth in the ten-team South American Zone qualifying table, thanks partly to two goals from the striker, so that particular dream is still very much alive.

Indeed, among all the euphoria that greeted the title win, the player found himself thinking of his homeland when his turn came to raise the trophy. With a Venezuelan flag draped over his shoulders, he dedicated the title to the football fans back home. "This is for everyone who has been following my progress here and hoping I would win the championship."

With Maldonado's goals critical to Venezuela's qualification hopes, it is no surprise to find he enjoys huge support in his homeland. Former national team coach Ricardo Paez is a big fan, and someone who epitomises how many Venezuelans feel about Maldonado: "What he's achieved in Mexico doesn't surprise me in the least. He's an essential player for Venezuela who has shown what he's capable of out on the pitch. I'm delighted for him."