Aguirre Banks on Player Versatility Ahead of World Cup 2026. Mexico head coach Javier Aguirre has stated that the team is ready for potential changes in the lineup. Several players are capable of performing in multiple positions, which could give the squad an edge at the World Cup.
The Mexican national team is completing its preparations for the 2026 World Cup under the guidance of Javier Aguirre. Ahead of the tournament, the coach emphasized the versatility of his players, pointing out that many of them are capable of performing effectively in different positions. According to Aguirre, this quality could play a key role in World Cup matches.
During a press conference in Toluca, where the team is holding its final training camp, Aguirre noted that, apart from goalkeepers, he does not consider his players to be narrow specialists. He cited Edson Alvarez as an example, who previously played in central defense but is now contending for a spot in the defensive midfield. The coach also highlighted Israel Reyes, who is able to cover several positions in both defense and midfield.
Mexico will play its last warm-up match before the start of the World Cup against Serbia. Initially, the lineup for this game was planned to be as close as possible to the starting eleven for the match against South Africa, but Aguirre allowed for changes due to the physical condition of some players. He emphasized that the final decision on the starting eleven has not yet been made, but the team's playing style has already been determined.
Despite optimistic forecasts in the Mexican media regarding a victory over South Africa in the first match of Group A, Aguirre expressed respect for the opponent. He recalled that he had previously faced the South African team when he was coaching Egypt, and noted the progress the team has made, including thanks to players who play abroad.
For Aguirre, this is already his third attempt to lead Mexico at a World Cup as head coach. He acknowledged that the opportunity to once again manage the national team at a home tournament is a special privilege. Recalling his experience in 1986, when he was a player, the coach emphasized that now he feels inspired and ready for new challenges.
The Mexican national team will spend the final week of preparation at a training facility near Mexico City, close to the legendary Azteca Stadium, where the opening match against South Africa will take place on June 11. Then, in Group A, Mexico will play South Korea in Guadalajara on June 18 and face the Czech Republic again at Azteca on June 24.
The 2026 World Cup will, for the first time, be held in three countries—Mexico, the United States, and Canada. Azteca Stadium will become the only venue to have hosted matches at three different World Cups. For the Mexican team, a home tournament is a chance to repeat the successes of previous years and reach the playoffs, something they have managed at every home World Cup.
