MEXICO CITY — Rafael Márquez has been appointed as the new head coach of the Mexican national team. The Mexican Football Federation (FMF) announced on Wednesday that the former Barcelona player will take over from Javier Aguirre as the team prepares for the upcoming 2030 World Cup.
At 47, Márquez served as Aguirre’s assistant from August 2024 until Mexico’s recent 3-2 defeat against England in the Round of 16. Although a succession plan had been set since 2024, there had been speculation that the FMF might consider other candidates.
The FMF remarked, “The selection of Rafael Márquez is part of a structured transition to ensure continuity, enhance development, and address future commitments.”
While El Tri currently has no scheduled matches, Márquez is anticipated to make his managerial debut during the FIFA international window in late September and early October.
Aguirre expressed confidence in his successor, stating, “I am pleased with Rafa’s growth. We both share significant roles in Mexican soccer, and I know him well as a player and teammate. He is undoubtedly qualified for this position.”
The FMF also conveyed its appreciation towards Aguirre. Although Mexico’s World Cup run concluded in the Round of 16—where they have been eliminated in eight of the last nine tournaments—the team displayed noticeable improvement from their group stage exit at Qatar 2022.
“He leaves behind a strong legacy built on hard work, identity, and competitiveness, which will serve as a solid foundation for the national team’s next chapter,” stated the FMF about Aguirre, who recently completed his third World Cup cycle as Mexico’s manager.
Márquez steps into his new role equipped with one of the most illustrious careers in Mexican football. He participated in five World Cups, won the 1999 Confederations Cup, and claimed Gold Cup titles in 2003 and 2011.
In Europe, he played for Monaco before achieving legendary status at Barcelona, securing two Champions League trophies and four La Liga titles. He began and concluded his career with Atlas, winning consecutive Liga MX championships with León.
Márquez transitioned to coaching in the youth ranks of Real Alcalá before successfully managing Barça Atlètic, Barcelona’s reserve team, where he led the squad for 82 matches over two seasons, achieving 40 wins, 21 draws, and 21 losses.