Rafa Marquez is officially taking the reins as Mexico’s new manager, kicking off his tenure against Colombia in Baltimore on Saturday, Sept. 26. This is it: the legendary defender, who anchored Mexico’s defense for so long, is now calling the shots for El Tri, and he’s got some big shoes to fill after the last World Cup run.
Aguirre Set the Bar, Now Marquez Has to Clear It
Let’s be real, Javier Aguirre did some serious work getting Mexico’s national team back on track after they fell behind the United States in Concacaf. Remember how they hadn’t even made the knockout stages since way back in the 2018 tournament? Aguirre steadied that ship! They bowed out to England in the Round of 16 at the last World Cup, which felt tough, but they could still hold their heads high. We saw why they came in with high expectations, reigning Gold Cup and Concacaf Nations League champions, with Julian Quinones absolutely delivering at the Azteca. Marquez is stepping into a team with some serious momentum, but he’s also got a squad eager to prove they’re ready for more.
Youth Movement: Mora and Gonzalez Stepping Up
Marquez isn’t wasting any time putting his stamp on things, which is exactly what you want to see from a new manager. He’s opened the door to everyone, even bringing back Hirving Lozano and German Berterame despite their struggles in Major League Soccer. But the real buzz is around the young guns. We’re talking about 17-year-old Gilberto Mora, who’s been absolutely tearing it up for Club Tijuana with five goals and one assist in just seven matches since the World Cup. That kid is special! Then there’s Armando Gonzalez, who’s with Olympiacos in Greece. He’s arguably the most talented striker to come through the national team since Chicharito, but he’s only got one national team goal and is still trying to lead the line over the 35-year-old Raul Jimenez. Santiago Gimenez at Porto is also trying to find his footing. With an extended three-week camp, Marquez clearly wants to work closely with these players and get them integrated.
This friendly against Colombia, even though they’re without James Rodriguez, is a huge moment. It’s not just another game; it’s the beginning of a whole new chapter for Mexico. Marquez has led Barcelona’s academy, he knows how to develop talent. You know he’s going in looking for a win, and he’s going to use this match to see which of these rising stars, like Mora, are truly ready to take that next big step. This Saturday at 9 p.m. ET from M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore is a must-watch for any fan who cares about the future of El Tri.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by CBS Sports.
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