Rafa Marquez to Lead Mexico After 2026 World Cup
After Mexico's exit from the 2026 World Cup, veteran manager Javier Aguirre will step down, ending his third spell as the national team coach. His assistant, Mexican soccer legend Rafa Marquez, is poised to take over as head coach.
Marquez, a revered figure who earned 147 caps for El Tri and achieved success across European leagues, has been preparing for this role since mid-2024. He left his coaching studies at Barcelona — where he won the UEFA Champions League twice and La Liga four times as a player — to join Mexico's national team staff.
Duilio Davino, Mexico’s sporting director and former defender, confirmed Marquez had already signed a contract before the World Cup, bringing most of his coaching team with him.
From Player to Coach
After finishing his playing career with Atlas, Marquez briefly served as Guadalajara's sporting president before diving into coaching education in Spain. He managed Barcelona Athletic (the club’s B team) starting in 2022 and extended his contract after one season but chose to return to Mexico when the national team called.
Known for his roles as center back and defensive midfielder, Marquez learned under coaches like Pep Guardiola, Didier Deschamps, and Ricardo La Volpe. Fans expect a shift toward a more dynamic style compared to Aguirre's conservative approach. Aguirre, who is expected to retire at 67, leaves behind a team with promising young talent.
Young Talent Offers Hope
Despite Mexico’s round of 16 elimination, there are reasons for optimism. Gilberto Mora, a 17-year-old midfielder, became the youngest player since Pelé to start a knockout stage match. Among the 26-man squad, five players are 23 or younger.
Mora’s former U-20 teammate Obed Vargas is gearing up for his first full season with Atlético Madrid. Meanwhile, Mateo Chavez scored against Czechia, and top Liga MX scorer Armando "Hormiga" Gonzalez is attracting interest from multiple European clubs.
Marquez aims to nurture these talents and collaborate with Liga MX club owners to boost player development within the league.
Looking Ahead
The 47-year-old Marquez will begin his tenure by leading Mexico in the Concacaf Nations League. The tournament draw is scheduled for July 23, with matches starting on September 21.
