'Can’t cover the sun with one finger' - Mexico Legend Andrés Guardado voices concern about El Tri ahead of the World Cup

Mexico’s recent 4-0 loss to Colombia deepened the worries surrounding Javier Aguirre’s project, drawing concern not just from fans but also from former national team icons such as Andrés Guardado.

In an interview with TUDN, the former captain of El Tri didn’t hide his unease about the team’s performance and trajectory heading toward the 2026 World Cup.

“Now that I’m on the outside, as just another fan, it’s clear we can’t cover the sun with one finger,” Guardado admitted. “The process is complicated. We’re struggling to find a way to make people believe again ahead of the World Cup, but I trust that Aguirre will find the answers to make this team competitive.”

Guardado also defended the current generation of players from accusations of lacking effort.

“The word ‘attitude’ can be misleading,” he said. “I don’t think any player goes onto the pitch without trying to win. I was a player myself, and I know that’s not the case. Sometimes, you just face a better opponent.

"Colombia played well-Luis Díaz found plenty of space, and James Rodríguez had time to make decisions between the lines. People who don’t analyze the tactical side might say it’s about attitude, but it’s not that simple.”

Guardado played in five World Cups with the Mexican national team. After the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, he announced his retirement from El Tri. Earlier this year, he officially hung up his boots, with Club León being his last professional team. He is now studying to become a coach in Europe.

Javier Aguirre’s side will face Ecuador Tuesday night at the Arkon Stadium in Guadalajara, looking to redeem themselves after Saturday’s poor performance at AT&T Stadium.