Guillermo Ochoa: “I see myself playing at the 2026 World Cup”

After some good performances at Qatar 2022, Guillermo Ochoa left for Europe for the second time and currently plies his trade with Serie A outfit Salernitana. Despite being one of the oldest players in the Mexican national team, the veteran goalkeeper still has the desire to be able to play in the 2026 World Cup, where Mexico will be one of the hosts.

In an interview with TUDN, the former América player made it clear that he intends to be at the next World Cup, although he recognises that his place is not guaranteed. “Yes, I see myself playing at the World Cup. I think it would be very nice to be able to finish my career with the Mexico national team in 2026 and in my country. I’m going to work, compete, and I’m going to earn a place as I have done over the years and work to help my country,” he said.

The Mexican goalkeeper admitted that he was saddened by the failure of El Tri at Qatar 2022. “Sad because every time a World Cup comes around, the goal as a player is to make history, to get as far as possible, but sadly we couldn’t advance from the group stage and obviously it wasn’t easy because you know you could have given a little more. The team did work, did run, did compete, but there was one more little step missing, that confidence, that energy, a little bit more of everything,” he added.

“Obviously it’s the responsibility of Tata, us the players, the responsibility of the Mexican media, abroad, too, because they do play an important role.”

Cocca in charge

The Mexico national team will now be coached by Argentine Diego Martin Cocca, who was chosen by the Mexican Football Federation and will be hoping to win the Gold Cup and the CONCACAF Nations League with the country.