Mexico to be without 12 regular players for friendlies against Belgium and Portugal
MEXICO CITY — Javier Aguirre of Mexico chooses to concentrate on the players available for the upcoming warmup matches rather than focusing on those who are absent as the team prepares for the World Cup.
The squad is without 12 regular selections, including captain Edson Álvarez and five other starters, as they gear up to compete against Portugal on Saturday and Belgium three days later.
The encounter with Portugal signifies the reopening of the historic Azteca Stadium, which has been closed since May 2024 for renovations in anticipation of hosting its third World Cup. The match against Belgium will take place at Soldier Field in Chicago.
The missing players include six members from the team that secured the regional Nations League and the Gold Cup last year.
“Half of the squad that achieved two titles, with whom you built a family connection and a commitment, and who lifted a trophy today, are not with you,” Aguirre stated during a press conference on Thursday. “This is not an excuse because other Mexicans are stepping up in the same roles and will strive to perform.”
Injuries have sidelined players such as AC Milan forward Santiago Gimenez, midfielders Luis Chávez and César Huerta, and full-back Rodrigo Huescas, all of whom are competing in European leagues.
“It is true that among these 12 injured players, two or three are definitely out, not due to my decision, but for medical reasons; however, there could be positive updates regarding the others,” the coach mentioned. “Are there absences? Yes, there are, and we will miss them, that is a fact, but we cannot rely on anyone. We have not done so until now. Therefore, if Juan is unavailable, Pedro will step in.”
Additionally, goalkeeper Luis Malagón and midfielder Marcel Ruiz have recently sustained injuries that will prevent them from participating in the World Cup, where Mexico’s first match is against South Africa on June 11.
Malagón’s injury has paved the way for the return of 40-year-old veteran Guillermo Ochoa, who has been called up to the national team for the first time since the Gold Cup, where he was a substitute throughout the tournament. The goalkeeper aims for his sixth World Cup appearance.
“‘Memo’ is an active goalkeeper, who is competing, and he is a player who contributes significantly both on and off the field,” Aguirre remarked. “He serves as a role model in Mexican soccer, he is active, fit, and working diligently, and I am eager to see him play.”
