Márquez named Mexico coach with 2030 World Cup goal in view

Rafael Márquez has been introduced as Mexico’s new head coach, seeking to lead the team beyond the World Cup round-of-16 stage that ended each of his five appearances as a player. He said he plans to build on the foundation established by Javier Aguirre rather than start over, citing his familiarity with the players and national-team environment. Márquez emphasized creating a competitive identity and strengthening the connection between the team and its supporters. His staff includes former Mexico teammate Andrés Guardado, along with Juan Manuel Lillo, Vidal Paloma, Xabier Mancisidor and Pol Lorente. Márquez’s first matches will be a series of U.S. friendlies against Colombia, Peru, the United States and Chile, as Mexico begins preparing for its longer-term goal of qualifying for the 2030 World Cup.