MEXICO CITY — Mexico’s goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa announced on Thursday that he will retire from international play following the upcoming World Cup, which may also signal the end of his overall playing career.
At nearly 41 years old during the tournament, Ochoa is a veteran of five World Cups and is likely to receive a call for a sixth, although his position on the squad has yet to be officially announced.
Currently playing for AEL Limassol in Cyprus, Ochoa shared in a TUDN interview that his national team retirement is a definite decision and that full retirement “could also be a possibility.”
Mexico’s coach, Javier Aguirre, revealed a partial roster that includes two Liga MX goalkeepers while reserving space for a third goalkeeper from overseas. Though he hasn’t specified names, Ochoa is the only player called up for recent matches.
“Retirement is undoubtedly challenging, but for me, it won’t be too hard because I have relished the experience for so many years,” Ochoa stated. “There comes a moment when your body and mind acknowledge that you’ve given your all, and you exit with peace, which is how I envision my departure.”
Ochoa joins an exclusive group of four Mexicans, including Antonio Carbajal, Rafael Márquez, and Andrés Guardado, who have participated in five World Cups.
If he plays, Ochoa would be in the same company as Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, who are also set to make appearances in their sixth World Cups.
Ochoa has been the starting goalkeeper in the last three World Cups and is currently viewed as a backup to Raúl “Tala” Rangel.
This year’s tournament will be co-hosted by Mexico, the United States, and Canada.