Rafa Marquez to Lead Mexico After 2026 World Cup

Mexico's journey at the recent World Cup ended with a loss to England, marking the conclusion of Javier Aguirre's third stint as head coach. Aguirre will step down, and his assistant is poised to take over the reins.

The new leader will be Rafa Marquez, a celebrated figure in Mexican soccer who earned 147 caps for El Tri and enjoyed success across European leagues. Since mid-2024, Marquez has been preparing for this role, leaving behind his coaching studies at Barcelona—where he won two UEFA Champions League titles and four La Liga championships as a player—to join the national team's coaching staff.

Before the World Cup, Mexico's sporting director Duilio Davino, himself a former defender for the country, confirmed that Marquez had already signed his contract and assembled most of his coaching team.

After retiring as a player with his hometown club Atlas, Marquez took on the position of sporting president at Guadalajara. His coaching education continued in Spain, leading Barcelona Athletic (the B team) starting in 2022. Though he extended his contract after one season, he left when called to serve the national side.

Throughout his playing days, Marquez operated mainly as a center back or defensive midfielder, gaining experience under notable coaches such as Pep Guardiola, Didier Deschamps, and Ricardo La Volpe. Fans anticipate a more dynamic approach from Marquez compared to the conservative tactics seen under Aguirre, who is expected to retire at 67.

Despite the early exit in the round of 16, Mexico still boasts promising talent. Seventeen-year-old midfielder Gilberto Mora made history as the youngest player since Pele to start in a knockout match. Five players on the current 26-man roster are 23 or younger, including Mora’s former U-20 teammate Obed Vargas, set for his debut full season with Atlético Madrid, and Mateo Chavez, who scored against Czechia. Additionally, top Liga MX scorer Armando "Hormiga" Gonzalez is drawing attention from European clubs.

Marquez aims to nurture these young talents while collaborating with Liga MX club owners to strengthen player development at the league level.

At 47 years old, Marquez’s immediate challenge will be guiding Mexico in the Concacaf Nations League. The group stage draw is scheduled for July 23, with matches kicking off September 21.