Mexico have turned to one of the country’s most celebrated football figures, appointing Rafael Marquez as head coach following their disappointing exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The announcement came days after Mexico’s dramatic 3-2 defeat to England in the Round of 16 at the Estadio Azteca, a result that brought Javier Aguirre’s latest spell in charge to an end.
Marquez, 47, now steps into the role with the task of rebuilding a side that entered the tournament with high expectations as one of the World Cup’s co-hosts. The Mexican Football Federation said the former captain would ensure the “continuity of the project” started under Aguirre.
A legend of Mexican football, Marquez earned 147 international caps during a career that spanned five World Cups. Widely respected for his leadership, he also enjoyed a successful spell at Barcelona, where he won multiple domestic titles and the UEFA Champions League.
His move into coaching has been gradual. After managing Barcelona’s reserve team, he joined Aguirre’s coaching staff in 2024, gaining experience at international level before being handed the top job.
Mexico’s campaign ended in heartbreaking fashion against England. Despite a spirited display in front of a home crowd, defensive lapses proved costly as England edged an entertaining contest to reach the quarter-finals.
Marquez now inherits a team searching for consistency after another tournament that fell short of supporters’ hopes. His appointment signals the federation’s desire to build on recent work while placing its faith in a coach who understands both the demands of international football and the expectations that come with leading El Tri.
The coming months will offer Marquez his first opportunity to shape the squad, with attention already turning to the next phase of Mexico’s long-term development.
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