An England rematch? When will Rafael Márquez make his debut as Mexico’s new head coach?
The successor to Javier Aguirre, Márquez faces autumn Mexico openers during an international window with a difference.
Rafael Márquez has officially taken the reins of the Mexico national team, replace Javier Aguirre as head coach of El Tri for the 2030 World Cup cycle. The “Kaiser” already knows when he’ll be overseeing his first games as Mexican boss, but his opponents are yet to be determined.
When will Márquez make his Mexico bow?
Márquez will face his first test during the next FIFA international window, which will be different from what teams have experienced in recent years. The September and October windows will be combined, allowing national teams to play up to four matches. Those games must be scheduled between September 21 and October 6.
Who will Mexico face?
El Tri has the advantage of not having any CONCACAF commitments during that FIFA window. Mexico, along with Canada, the United States, and Panama, will not enter the CONCACAF Nations League until November.
While friendly matches among those teams remain a possibility, Mexico would still need additional opponents, making clashes against teams from other confederations the most likely scenario.
Could England be one of Mexico’s opponents?
Following the two nations’ round-of-16 meeting at the 2026 World Cup, sections of the British media have been pushing for the Mexicans to play a friendly at Wembley Stadium, as a gesture of appreciation for the hospitality the Three Lions received during its visit to Mexico.
AS México has learned that there have not yet been any formal discussions between the Mexican Football Federation and England’s Football Association regarding such a match. Still, the growing media speculation is beginning to generate momentum around the idea.
Related stories
The most coveted souvenir at the 2026 World Cup
Get closer to the game! Whether you like your soccer of the European variety or that on this side of the pond, our AS USA app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more. Plus, stay updated on NFL, NBA and all other big sports stories as well as the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.
And there’s more: check out our TikTok and Instagram reels for bite-sized visual takes on all the biggest soccer news and insights.