Official: Rafa Márquez leads Mexico

The awaited managerial change at the Mexico national team has officially taken place. Following the team's elimination from the World Cup Round of 16 with a 3-2 loss to England, Javier Aguirre announced he was stepping down. The experienced manager has been replaced by former national team captain Rafa Márquez, who served as his assistant coach throughout the tournament.

This transition is not actually a new development; it was part of a long-term plan announced by the Mexican Football Federation in 2024 when Aguirre took charge for the third time. Under that plan, Aguirre was to lead the host nation through the World Cup, then hand over the role to Márquez for the 2026-2030 cycle after the tournament. In this process, Mexico topped their group and advanced to the knockout stage for the first time in 40 years by eliminating Ecuador in the Round of 32.

The 47-year-old Rafa Márquez stands out as one of the most successful Mexicans in football history from his playing career. Having won four La Liga titles and two Champions League titles wearing the Barcelona shirt, the experienced figure also represented the national team at five different World Cups. Entering coaching after his playing career, Márquez was brought on as Aguirre's assistant coach after managing Barcelona Atlètic.

Federation general manager Duilio Davino confirmed in his statement that Márquez has signed the contract and has begun assembling the coaching staff that will work on preparations for the 2030 World Cup. Mexico will need to go through the regional qualifying process to reach the next World Cup; unlike this tournament, where they were exempt due to their host status, it is assessed that Márquez will face a significant test in the coming period.

Image: Goal