'Coming back was wonderful' - San Diego FC star Hirving 'Chucky' Lozano discusses return to Mexico and shares expectations for 2026 World Cup

Lozano’s resurgence in MLS has reopened the doors to involvement with El Tri, where he’s determined to make the most of every call-up after a long absence. The winger says welcomed back by fans, staff, and teammates as Mexico build toward the 2026 World Cup. His sharp form at club level has fueled that comeback, with nine goals and 10 assists in 25 matches for San Diego FC, a side currently leading the Western Conference.

“I had a long period where I couldn’t go to the national team due to health issues,” Lozano told EFE. “But coming back was wonderful. They welcomed me so well - the fans, the coaching staff, the players. They’re doing a great job, building a great group, and that’s beautiful. We have to keep improving, keep working on the concept Javier [Aguirre] wants us to play, and make sure we understand the coaching staff’s ideas. It’s step by step, but we have time to work and they’re doing it very well. The goals are clear: to have a great World Cup because it’s at home, and we have to work very hard for that.”

Lozano also reflected on San Diego’s remarkable first MLS season under coach Mikey Varas. 

“We’ve done a great job, we’re on the right path. I’m very happy with the team and with myself. There’s still a bit of the regular season left, which is the most important part," he said. "Hopefully, we can stay on this path and reach the playoffs in the best possible way.”

As for his famous nickname, Lozano revealed the origin of “Chucky” dates back to his early days with Pachuca. 

“When I arrived at Pachuca, I liked to scare my teammates in the room, play pranks on them,” he recalled with a smile. “Two of my teammates asked if I’d like to be called Chucky. I said I had no problem with it, that it didn’t bother me. From that moment, it stuck, and it’s never gone away. Honestly, I love it. Not everyone has a nickname they like, and that’s so meaningful.”

Mexico will face Colombia on Oct. 11 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, as part of the upcoming FIFA window. Four days later, on Oct. 15, El Tri will take on Ecuador at Estadio Akron in Guadalajara.