Despite Mexico’s recent struggles on the field, the Mexican Football Federation (FMF) remains confident in Javier Aguirre’s leadership as El Tri prepares for the 2026 World Cup. The veteran coach, who took over to stabilize a team in transition, has faced mounting criticism following a series of underwhelming results.
FIFA began the second phase of World Cup ticket sales on Monday, putting one million tickets into a randomized draw that runs through Friday and includes a domestic priority window for residents of the U.S., Canada and Mexico. Fans worldwide can enter the draw but those in the three host countries who are selected will receive an exclusive time slot.
Hirving “Chucky” Lozano, one of San Diego FC’s brightest stars in the 2025 MLS season, was a surprise omission from the lineup in the club’s recent Matchday 34 clash against the Portland Timbers. What first appeared to be a tactical decision by head coach Mikey Varas now seems to stem from a deeper disciplinary issue, according to reports.
Mexico’s right back position remains unsettled ahead of the 2026 World Cup, but there’s a new glimmer of hope. El Tri striker Santiago Giménez shared an encouraging update on Copenhagen defender Rodrigo Huescas, who’s recovering from a torn ACL. The two came up together in Cruz Azul’s youth academy, where they formed a close bond.
Julián Quiñones has moved past Cristiano Ronaldo in the Saudi Pro League scoring race after netting a hat trick against NEOM SC. The naturalized Mexican forward now has six goals through five matches, one more than the Al Nassr captain. Al Qadsiah sit second in the table with 13 points, two behind Ronaldo’s side.
Mexican Football Federation president Mikel Arriola says El Tri are aiming to face Portugal in the long-awaited reopening of Estadio Azteca, with only a few technical details left to finalize. He also confirmed plans to take the national team to Central America as part of its 2026 World Cup preparations. Mexico have already faced opponents from Asia and South America in their buildup.
Spain have strengthened their grip atop the FIFA men's world rankings following the October international window, with the three North American World Cup co-hosts having mixed fortunes. The USMNT remained No. 16 and Mexico held steady at No. 14, while Canada dropped two positions to 28th in the latest rankings by football's governing body.
Mexico’s poor results during the recent FIFA window sparked criticism of several players, including Toluca forward Alexis Vega, who has been questioned for his lack of impact. His club coach, Antonio Mohamed, defended him and expressed confidence that Vega will prove his worth when the 2026 World Cup arrives. The former Chivas player was booed by fans.
The results didn’t go Mexico’s way under Javier Aguirre during this FIFA window. El Tri had a humiliating 4-0 defeat to Colombia at AT&T Stadium and then drew 1-1 with Ecuador in Guadalajara - two potential World Cup opponents. Despite that, San Diego FC winger Hirving Lozano offered a positive assessment and highlighted some encouraging signs.
“Complicated” is the best word to describe this FIFA window for Javier Aguirre and the Mexican national team. El Tri wrapped the October break with a 4-0 loss to Colombia and a 1-1 draw with Ecuador. As Mexico looks ahead to November’s friendlies against Uruguay and Paraguay, Aguirre is expected to present a clearer idea of his World Cup squad.
One of the most outspoken critics of the national setup is Hugo Sánchez - arguably the greatest Mexican to ever play in Europe, a five-time Pichichi winner with Real Madrid. The legendary striker believes that Mexican federation leaders have halted the country’s football growth by withdrawing from Copa América and Copa Libertadores competitions.
Former Mexico international and ex-PSV and Real Betis player Andrés Guardado expressed concern about the current state of El Tri following their 4-0 loss to Colombia over the weekend. The retired midfielder believes Javier Aguirre’s side could face a tough World Cup campaign, insisting that “you can’t cover the sun with one finger.”
Mexico coach Javier Aguirre made it clear that only players with mental toughness will make his roster for the World Cup, saying his project with El Tri isn’t for those who “can’t handle the heat.” Aguirre also addressed the goalkeeping situation, casting doubt on Luis Ángel Malagón’s status as the starter and saying the position is still up for grabs.
AC Milan legend Massimo Ambrosini has praised Christian Pulisic and Santiago Giménez, crediting the Mexico forward for positively impacting the USMNT star's form. Ambrosini, who won multiple titles with Milan from 1995 to 2013, said both have impressed since joining the club. Pulisic has scored 38 goals in 108 appearances, while Giménez has netted seven in 27.
Luis Ángel Malagón and Raúl Rangel have been the goalkeepers most often called up by Mexico manager Javier Aguirre since he took over last year. Both are vying for the starting spot at the 2026 World Cup — but Aguirre had a clear warning: don’t get too comfortable. The list of contenders keeps growing, and legend Guillermo Ochoa won’t be guaranteed anything at that position.
The atmosphere in Mexico’s camp is at an all-time high ahead of their October friendlies against Colombia and Ecuador, two South American sides already qualified for the 2026 World Cup. Chivas and El Tri goalkeeper Raúl Rangel said that there’s a strong sense of unity and chemistry within Javier Aguirre’s squad as the team gears up.
With only three FIFA international windows remaining before the World Cup in June, Carlos Acevedo has a prime opportunity to stake his claim for Mexico’s final roster. The Santos Laguna goalkeeper joins Luis Ángel Malagón, Raúl Rangel, Guillermo Ochoa, and Carlos Moreno in competing to impress head coach Javier Aguirre.
Popular on-demand delivery service DoorDash has agreed on a strategic multi-year partnership with the Mexican Football Federation as it looks to expand its presence in soccer in the United States. The company will have an expansive presence at Mexican national team matches, with in-stadium ads, fan experiences and exclusive hospitality tickets.
Álvaro Fidalgo, one of Liga MX’s standout talents, could be eligible to represent Mexico in March 2026 after five years in the country and obtaining citizenship. The Club América midfielder’s vision and control could provide the creativity El Tri currently lacks beyond Marcel Ruiz. The Spaniard began his career at Real Madrid.
Mexico head coach Javier Aguirre believes Tijuana's rising star Gilberto Mora needs a new challenge abroad. After the 16-year-old’s standout performances for club and country, Aguirre urged him to “push into a different environment” by joining a European team competing in the Champions League, Europa League or Conference League.
Santiago Giménez has yet to score in Serie A after six appearances for AC Milan, with his lone goal coming in the Coppa Italia. Still, manager Massimiliano Allegri insists the Mexico striker has his full trust, praising Giménez’s importance to Milan’s structure and work rate after Sunday’s goalless draw with Juventus.
AC Milan striker Santi Giménez headlines Mexico’s 25-man squad for October friendlies, with notable absences including Raúl Jiménez, Julián Araujo and Edson Álvarez. El Tri will face South American foes Colombia and Ecuador in the FIFA window, with Javier Aguirre's roster featuring a mix of surprise inclusions and omissions.
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