Mexico’s 31-man preliminary roster for the upcoming Copa América tournament has raised eyebrows by leaving out high-profile veteran players such as Guillermo Ochoa, Hirving “Chucky” Lozano, Raúl Jiménez, and Henry Martín. Instead, the squad is comprised of a younger generation of players, with a total of 10 individuals aged 23 or younger. This deliberate shift in the team’s composition signals a strategic move towards building a stronger foundation for the national team in preparation for the 2026 World Cup.
Head coach Jaime “Jimmy” Lozano emphasized the significance of introducing new blood into the team during a recent news conference. He expressed his confidence in the younger players and highlighted the opportunity for them to gain valuable experience on the international stage. Mexico Sporting Director Duilio Davino echoed Lozano’s sentiments, emphasizing that the team’s performance at Copa América will not sway the long-term vision for the national team. Davino reiterated his trust in Lozano to lead Mexico to success at the 2026 World Cup, underscoring that the current project extends beyond the upcoming tournament.
Preparatory Matches and Tournament Overview
Prior to the start of Copa América, Mexico is scheduled to play a series of friendlies against Bolivia, Uruguay, and Brazil in the United States. These matches will serve as crucial preparation for the team as they fine-tune their strategies and tactics ahead of the tournament. Copa América, which will also be hosted in the U.S., is set to commence on June 20th. Mexico has been placed in Group B and will square off against Jamaica, Venezuela, and Ecuador in the group stage matches at various venues across the United States.
The 31-man roster features a mix of emerging talent and more seasoned players across different positions. The goalkeeping department includes Angel Malagon, Raul Rangel, and Julio Gonzalez, while the defensive line is represented by players such as Israel Reyes, Cesar Montes, and Gerardo Arteaga. The midfield boasts the likes of Edson Alvarez, Orbelin Pineda, and Carlos Rodriguez, providing a blend of creativity and stability in the center of the pitch. The forward line features promising talents such as Santiago Gimenez, Diego Lainez, and Alexis Vega, who will be tasked with delivering goals for the team.
Mexico’s decision to field a younger roster for Copa América reflects a strategic shift towards building a competitive team for future international competitions. The blend of youth and experience in the squad showcases the depth and talent present in Mexican football, setting the stage for an exciting and promising journey ahead for the national team. As fans eagerly anticipate the team’s performance in Copa América, all eyes will be on the emerging stars and the potential they hold for Mexico’s footballing future.