Javier Aguirre appointed Mexico head coach for a third time

Javier Aguirre was appointed head coach of Mexico’s national soccer team on Monday, replacing Jaime Lozano who was sacked this month following a disappointing Copa America group-stage exit, the country’s football federation (FMF) announced. This appointment comes as Mexico gears up to co-host the 2026 World Cup alongside Canada and the United States.

The 65-year-old Aguirre is embarking on his third tenure as head coach of the Mexican national team, having previously led the squad to the knockout stages of the 2002 and 2010 World Cups and winning the CONCACAF Gold Cup in 2009. Barcelona reserve team manager Rafael Marquez has been named as Aguirre’s main assistant coach. The length of Aguirre’s contract was not specified.

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“Both are undisputed leaders with distinct personal styles,” said men’s national team director Duilio Davino. “Aguirre is characterized by being a leader who guides and convinces his players and coaching staff through his vision and by creating bonds with his team. Rafa leads by example, supported by the fact that he was a high-performance footballer in Mexico and Europe.”

Aguirre’s previous stints with the national team saw him guide Mexico to 38 wins, 12 losses, and 11 draws, setting a national team record for a manager in charge for at least 34 matches.