In a bold move, new head coach of the Mexico national team, Javier Aguirre, has made headlines by excluding veteran players such as Guillermo Ochoa, Raúl Jiménez, and Hirving “Chucky” Lozano from his first 26-man call-up. This decision, revealed on Thursday ahead of upcoming friendlies against New Zealand and Canada, marks a significant departure from the norm.
The absence of high-profile players like Ochoa, Jiménez, and Lozano, who were also left out of the Copa América roster, has raised eyebrows among fans and pundits alike. With Aguirre opting for a fresh and youthful squad, the exclusion of these seasoned players hints at a potential shift in the team’s dynamic and playing style.
Key figures in Aguirre’s first list include Feyenoord star striker Santiago Giménez, Club América goalkeeper Luis Ángel Malagón, Almería defender César Montes, and Tigres winger Marcelo Flores. These new additions bring a sense of excitement and anticipation to the team, promising a rejuvenated approach on the field.
Notable by his absence is West Ham midfielder Edson Álvarez, another prominent European-based player who is currently recovering from an injury. While Álvarez’s experience and skill are a loss for the team, Aguirre’s decision reflects a commitment to prioritizing fitness and form in his selections.
With 25 of the 26 players having earned previous call-ups, the inclusion of Spanish-born goalkeeper Álex Padilla as a newcomer signals a new era for Mexican football. Aguirre’s emphasis on blending experience with youth and injecting fresh talent into the squad hints at a strategic vision for the team’s future.
Preparations for the upcoming friendlies will kick off with a training camp this Sunday, setting the stage for Aguirre’s return to coaching the national team. With a match against the United States on the horizon, Mexico’s sporting director Duilio Davino’s reassurance that the “door is never closed” to veteran players offers hope for a potential reunion in the future.
Aguirre’s bold selection choices have sparked intrigue and debate within the football community. His strategic approach to revitalizing the team and fostering a new generation of talent reflects a commitment to evolution and progress. As Mexico prepares to face new challenges on the international stage, Aguirre’s vision for the national team sets the stage for an exciting and transformative era in Mexican football.
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