Rafael Marquez replaces Javier Aguirre as Mexico head coach
Mexico City, July 9
Rafael Marquez has been appointed Mexico head coach on a deal running until 2030, the Mexican Football Federation said on Thursday.
The 47-year-old replaces Javier Aguirre, who stepped down after Mexico's 3-2 defeat by England in the World Cup round of 16 on Sunday.
"The appointment of Rafael Marquez is part of an orderly transition envisaged within the FMF's institutional vision to continue the work carried out during the last World Cup cycle, strengthen the sporting development of the Mexico national team and prepare for its upcoming international commitments," read an FMF statement.
Marquez, a former defender who won 148 caps for Mexico, had been a member of Aguirre's coaching staff since July 2024.
Following Mexico's 3-2 defeat at the hands of England in the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup 2026, the Mexican Football Federation (FMF) and Javier Aguirre agreed to call time on his reign as national team manager.
The FMF said Aguirre had left a "lasting legacy" after overseeing 22 wins, nine draws and six defeats in his third spell in charge of the national team.
"Aguirre's legacy will remain forever in our history," the Mexican federation stated on social media.
During his third spell in charge of the team, which lasted nearly two years, Aguirre became the manager with the most victories in the history of the national side. He managed 50 matches, with a record of 33 wins, nine draws and eight defeats and secured the CONCACAF Gold Cup and Nations League in 2025.
After the round of 16 defeat to England, Aguirre stated he would be leaving the job and informally announced the appointment of Marquez, who served as his assistant manager during this spell. "I gave Rafa Marquez a big hug... he has four very good years ahead of him; there is a solid foundation," Aguirre said.
Marquez's announcement was accompanied by the phrase: "The continuation of a legacy, with a long-term and transitional project."
— IANS
Reader Comments
Marquez until 2030? That's a massive commitment. He did well as an assistant, but head coach is a whole different pressure. Let's see if he can handle the expectations—Mexico always expects to go deep in World Cups.
Aguirre's legacy is solid—Gold Cup and Nations League double in 2025 is no joke. But that England defeat showed the gap against top teams. Marquez needs to focus on tactical improvements, not just reputation. 🇲🇽
As an Indian football fan, I admire how Mexico plans transitions. They didn't panic after a World Cup exit—they had Marquez ready. In India, we'd be scrambling to hire some foreign coach with no continuity. Big respect to FMF for this structured approach.
Marquez was a warrior on the pitch—tough, smart, and a leader. But let's be honest: his coaching experience is thin. Aguirre did the hard work, now Marquez gets the credit? I hope he proves the doubters wrong, but 2030 is a long runway for someone unproven.
This is exactly how you build a national team program! Bring in a legend as assistant, let him learn from an experienced coach, then hand over the reins. India's AIFF needs to study this model instead of hiring and firing every two years. Mark my words, Mexico will be dangerous by 2030.
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