Mexico Names Rafa Márquez Head Coach After World Cup Exit

Overview

• The federation confirmed the appointment on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, replacing Javier Aguirre after Mexico lost 3–2 to England in the World Cup round of 16 at Estádio Azteca.
• Rafa Márquez, a former Barcelona defender and five-time Mexico captain, was promoted from his role as Aguirre’s assistant and will take charge of the senior team immediately.
• Aguirre publicly endorsed Márquez and the FMF thanked Aguirre for his work while saying the change was part of a transition planned since 2024.
• Márquez’s first matches as head coach are scheduled for the September–October 2026 FIFA international window and the federation has not yet announced opponents.
• The federation frames the move as a long-term project toward 2030 that will require managing an aging core of current internationals and beginning a squad refresh that could change player selection and team style.