Sports 22 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Rafael Marquez Set to Succeed Javier Aguirre as Mexico Coach Post-World Cup
Mexico Football Federation sporting director Duilio Davino has confirmed that Rafael Marquez will take over as national team manager from Javier Aguirre after this summer's World Cup. Marquez, a Barcelona legend and former Mexico captain, has been Aguirre's assistant since July 2024 under a planned succession. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/world-cup/rafael-marquez-will-replace-javier-aguirre-as-mexico-manager-after-world-cup-5432308
Rafael Marquez, the iconic defender who starred for FC Barcelona and captained Mexico at five World Cups, is poised to become the next manager of Mexico’s national team. This follows confirmation from Mexico Football Federation sporting director Duilio Davino in a Fox Sports Mexico interview.
Marquez joined Aguirre’s staff as an assistant coach in July 2024, part of a deliberate succession strategy. Davino noted that Marquez’s contract is already signed, with his coaching team about 80% finalized, and Andres Guardado as a potential addition. He praised Marquez’s transformative presence in the dressing room, mirroring his playing days.
Aguirre, a Mexico City native on his third stint as coach—previously from 2001-02 and 2009-10—will depart after the tournament. Mexico co-hosts the World Cup with the US and Canada, hosting 13 matches including all group-stage games and three knockouts. In Group A, they open against South Africa on June 11 in Mexico City.
Marquez’s coaching resume is modest, with stints at Alcala U15 and Barcelona B, but his playing achievements shine: 147 caps, 17 goals for Mexico (1997-2018), and 10 trophies at Barcelona including two Champions Leagues and four La Ligas.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)