Mexico’s new head coach, Javier Aguirre, has surprised many by leaving out veteran players such as Guillermo Ochoa, Raúl Jiménez, and Hirving “Chucky” Lozano from his first 26-man call-up for the Mexican national team. This strategic decision marks a departure from the previous roster selections and signals a bold new approach under Aguirre’s leadership.
In Aguirre’s first list, key figures like Feyenoord star striker Santiago Giménez, Club América goalkeeper Luis Ángel Malagón, Almería defender César Montes, and up-and-coming Tigres winger Marcelo Flores take the spotlight. These players, along with others on the call-up list, represent a new generation of talent that Aguirre is looking to develop and integrate into the national team.
Of the 26 players called up, 25 have earned previous call-ups, with Spanish-born Athletic Club goalkeeper Álex Padilla being the sole newcomer to the squad at the senior level. This mix of new faces and established players demonstrates Aguirre’s commitment to building a competitive and well-rounded team for upcoming competitions.
Preparation for the upcoming friendlies against New Zealand and Canada will kick off with a training camp starting this Sunday. These games will be the first test for Aguirre in his third stint with the national team, and they will set the tone for future matches and competitions. Additionally, a friendly against the United States national team in Guadalajara’s Estadio Akron looms on the horizon, providing another opportunity for Aguirre and his squad to showcase their talents.
Mexico’s sporting director, Duilio Davino, has emphasized that the “door was never closed” to veteran players who were left out of the Copa América roster. This open-door policy reflects Aguirre’s willingness to consider all options and make decisions based on performance and merit. Discussions with Valencia for a potential country vs. club friendly in October further illustrate the national team’s commitment to exploring new opportunities and enhancing their competitiveness on the international stage.