Legends Set for Mexico National Team Return | OneFootball

El Trí will face the United States on Tuesday 15th October at the Estadio Akron in Guadalajara.

The upcoming October international fixtures for the Mexican National Team is set to be a momentous occasion, filled with both nostalgia and excitement for the future. Coach Javier Aguirre has named his squad for the upcoming friendlies against the United States and Valencia, and Gabriel Araige from TUDN has provided key insights into the selection. The squad features the return of some of Mexico’s most beloved veterans, as well as the introduction of promising young talents.

Andrés Guardado's Farewell

Perhaps the biggest headline is the inclusion of Andrés Guardado. The legendary midfielder will officially say goodbye to international football, marking the end of an era for one of Mexico’s all-time greats. With over 170 caps, Guardado has been a key figure for El Tri for more than a decade. His call-up for these friendlies will give fans and teammates the chance to honor his contributions to the national team one last time.

Araige emphasizes the emotional weight of this moment, noting how Guardado’s leadership on and off the pitch has inspired a generation of players. The match against the USMNT, in particular, will provide a fitting stage for Guardado’s farewell, as the rivalry between the two nations has often brought out the best in him.

Guillermo Ochoa's Return

Gabriel Araige also reports the return of another veteran, goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa. After being left out of recent call-ups, Ochoa is back in the squad, reinforcing Mexico’s goalkeeping options. His return means that Atlético Bilbao’s rising star Alex Padilla, despite a strong start to his season in Spain, will miss out. Raúl Rángel and Luis Malagón will also be part of the squad, pushing for a spot behind the iconic Ochoa.

Ochoa’s experience will be crucial, especially with the absence of Padilla. Araige suggests that Ochoa’s leadership and skill set are still highly valued by Aguirre, even as younger talents are knocking on the door. His presence brings stability, and the upcoming games will be a test of his form as he seeks to prove his continued importance to the national team.

The Return of Raúl Jiménez and Edson Álvarez

Two more high-profile returns, Raúl Jiménez and Edson Álvarez, will bolster Mexico’s lineup. Jiménez, who has scored three goals in six Premier League matches for Fulham, seems to have regained his form after a difficult period. Araige points out that Jiménez's sharp start to the season makes him a natural choice for Aguirre, and he is expected to play a key role in the attack.

Álvarez, now recovered from a hamstring injury he sustained during the Copa América, is another crucial inclusion. The West Ham United midfielder, who has taken over as national team captain in Ochoa’s absence, is a linchpin for Mexico’s midfield. Araige notes that Álvarez’s leadership and defensive prowess make him indispensable, and his recovery could not have come at a better time for El Tri.

Rodrigo Huescas' Inclusion

One of the most exciting inclusions is Rodrigo Huescas, who recently made the move from Cruz Azul to FC Copenhagen. The 21-year-old has quickly adapted to life in Denmark and is poised to challenge Julián Araujo for the right-back position. Huescas' pace, technical ability, and versatility make him a valuable asset, and Araige highlights how his emergence adds a fresh dimension to the squad.

Huescas' call-up shows Aguirre's willingness to integrate young talent into the national team setup, especially as Mexico looks ahead to upcoming tournaments. His competition with Araujo could spark a new era for the team’s defensive lineup, providing depth and options on the right flank.

A New Chapter for El Tri

With these key players called up, the October friendlies will not only be a celebration of the past, with Guardado’s farewell, but also a look at the future of Mexican football. The mix of veterans like Ochoa and Álvarez, alongside rising stars such as Huescas, reflects the balancing act Javier Aguirre is managing as he builds toward the next major international competitions.

As Gabriel Araige emphasizes in his reporting, this squad announcement signals the dawn of a new chapter for El Tri, where established stars are given their proper send-offs while the next generation begins to make its mark on the international stage. Fans will eagerly await the upcoming matches to see how this blend of experience and youth comes together in one of Mexico’s most storied teams.