'They will bring us much joy' - Former El Tri star Miguel Layún has faith in Javier Aguirre and Rafael Márquez's management of Mexico

Javier Aguirre’s third spell at the helm of the Mexican National Team has brought satisfaction to many fans, especially after winning the Nations League Finals - Mexico’s first title in this tournament after three consecutive victories by the United States. One of those expressing confidence in Aguirre’s leadership is former national team and Club América player Miguel Layún.

Layún praised Aguirre’s work since taking over last year from Jaime Lozano, as Mexico prepares to host the 2026 World Cup alongside the United States and Canada. According to Layún, the team under Aguirre and assistant coach Rafa Márquez has the potential to bring great joy to Mexican supporters.

"Since Javier Aguirre came on board, the team has shown consistent growth - not just in terms of talent, but also in the way they approach matches. I think the players have done a phenomenal job, improving with every game. I genuinely believe Mexico is on the right path. The players understand the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity they have. We may not see another World Cup in our country again, so I’m confident they’ll give us a lot to cheer for,” Layún said.

The former fullback from Club América expressed his excitement about this new era under Aguirre and also spoke about Rafa Márquez, the ex-Barcelona legend who is now serving as assistant coach and may one day take over the national team himself.

"I love the fact that someone as iconic as Rafa Márquez is being groomed to continue this process. Right now, I don’t think there’s anyone better to instill in young players what it means to wear the national team jersey. Javier Aguirre is the ideal leader for this World Cup journey, and I truly hope results go our way,” he added.

Layún also shared his thoughts on the upcoming World Cup, where Mexico will play at home in the iconic Estadio Azteca and aim to finally reach the elusive fifth match.

"The format has changed - there are more teams, more matches. I feel that playing at home gives Mexico a real shot at performing well. Hopefully, the team does well enough in the group stage for us to see more games played here in Mexico. The dream is always to go as far as possible. Every player on that field has to believe they can beat anyone and even become world champions. Personally, I’ll always feel excited whenever I watch Mexico play, no matter what phase the team is in,” he concluded.

Following the announcement that Estadio Azteca will reopen in March 2026 after extensive renovations ahead of the FIFA World Cup, Layún—one of the special guests from Mexico City's Organizing Committee—commented on the significance of the event.

“No words can truly capture what Estadio Azteca means to world football. We’re talking about a venue that will have hosted three World Cups. No matter which teams play the reopening match, they probably won’t match the weight of the stadium’s legacy. I just hope it’s a memorable event that fans can truly enjoy,” he said.

Mexico prepare to defend their Gold Cup crown. Before that, El Tri will play two friendly matches - facing Switzerland on June 7 in Utah, followed by a match against Turkey on June 10 in North Carolina. The Gold Cup campaign kicks off on June 14, when Mexico takes on the Dominican Republic.