'I’m eager to bring back the old Chucky' - Mexico manager Javier Aguirre says San Diego FC's Hirving Lozano is regaining form in MLS

One of the most anticipated returns to the Mexican national team was that of Hirving Lozano. After his stint in Europe and move to MLS, “Chucky” hadn’t been called up by El Tri since March 2024. The forward, who has become a fan favorite at San Diego FC - where he has tallied nine goals and six assists in 26 matches under head coach Mikey Varas - is now looking to reclaim his place in the squad.

“In San Diego, he’s been regaining his form. He’s had a great career overall in Mexico, in Europe, and now in San Diego, he’s showing flashes of the level he once had. He’s explosive, he can score, he’s fearless, and he’s Mexican - we have to take advantage of that,” Aguirre said about the winger.

“I’m eager to bring back the old Chucky because he had a great World Cup, he’s given us joy, he was a champion in Italy and the Netherlands, and I’ve even spoken with Carlo Ancelotti, who once used him as a center forward [at Napoli]," he said. "I’m happy with how he’s doing, and I hope tomorrow I can give him more minutes than the other day.”

Lozano was Mexico’s breakout star at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, where he scored a memorable goal against Germany. 

But recent years haven’t been easy for the former PSV and Napoli man, as injuries and the difficult decision to leave European football for MLS marked a turning point. Still, his resurgence with San Diego has earned him another shot under Aguirre.

Mexico have three straight wins against South Korea - two in friendlies and one at the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

After facing South Korea, Mexico will meet Colombia on Oct. 10 and Ecuador on Oct. 14 to continue preparations for the World Cup.