Goalkeeper and Squad Selection Insights for Mexico’s National Team Ahead of the World Cup

**Goalkeeper Selection**
GOAL’s selections include Raúl Rangel, Luis Ángel Malagón, and Guillermo Ochoa, with Carlos Acevedo in contention. Coach Aguirre has expressed confidence in the goalkeeping position, highlighting that both Malagón and Rangel have performed admirably during their call-ups. However, Rangel appears to have gained an advantage over Malagón in the race for the starting position.

Rangel’s impressive displays suggest he may secure the starting role for the World Cup, although the final matches will provide further clarity. While Aguirre has rotated between the two, recent games indicate a preference for Rangel.

In a notable twist, Guillermo Ochoa, who has not featured for the national team since 2024 and was absent since the Gold Cup, is expected to return for the upcoming friendlies. This development hints at his inclusion in the final roster, potentially marking his sixth World Cup appearance alongside football legends like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

The conversation around goalkeepers has sparked some controversy, with many fans advocating for Santos Laguna’s Carlos Acevedo, citing his consistent high-level performance. Some believe his omission would be unjustified, especially given that he does not play for a major club such as América or Chivas, which some perceive as a disadvantage in national team considerations.

**Defensive Line-Up**
GOAL’s selections for defense feature Johan Vásquez, César Montes, Mateo Chávez, Jesús Gallardo, Israel Reyes, Jorge Sánchez, Ramón Juárez, and Richard Ledezma, with Julián Araujo, Rodrigo Huescas, Jesús Orozco, and Everardo López included in the mix.

Vásquez and Montes are expected to secure positions at center back, while the right-back spot remains uncertain, primarily due to Huescas’ injury and the inconsistent performances of Sánchez and Álvarez. Chivas player Richard Ledezma has emerged as a contender, following strong performances, while Mateo Chávez currently seems favored for the left-back position, with Gallardo also vying for a role. Orozco’s availability could be compromised due to a recent injury.

Ledezma, who recently became eligible to represent Mexico, is well-positioned to make the final squad given his solid performances in Liga MX.

**Midfield Dynamics**
GOAL’s picks for the midfield include Edson Álvarez, Gilberto Mora, Marcel Ruiz, Erik Lira, Luis Romo, Orbelín Pineda, Álvaro Fidalgo, Roberto Alvarado, Obed Vargas, and Diego Lainez, with Carlos Rodríguez, Erick Sánchez, César Huerta, Luis Chávez, Brian Gutiérrez, and Alexis Gutiérrez in contention.

Midfield remains Aguirre’s most challenging decision, with numerous talented players vying for limited spots. Captain Edson Álvarez, despite recent struggles at Fenerbahçe, is anticipated to lead the midfield. His injury raises questions about his starting position, although he may excel as a center back.

Mora and Ruiz have recently impressed as starters, while Vargas and Romo offer physicality in ball recovery. The midfield composition remains fluid, with Fidalgo’s inclusion in the final squad potentially offering a creative edge.

Lainez and Huerta face critical challenges in securing their places, with Lainez maintaining strong form and Huerta currently recovering from injury, which has affected his performance. Luis Chávez’s situation is precarious due to an ongoing ACL recovery.

**Attacking Options**
GOAL’s forward selections include Raúl Jiménez, Santiago Giménez, Alexis Vega, Julián Quiñones, and Germán Berterame, with Hirving Lozano, Armando González, and Ángel Sepúlveda in the mix.

Julián Quiñones is currently in formidable form, contending for the scoring title in Saudi Arabia, yet he may not fit Aguirre’s vision as seamlessly as other forwards. Jiménez remains the clear starting striker, followed by Giménez, who is recovering from an ankle injury. Despite his setbacks, Giménez’s prior experience keeps him in contention.

Vega is also recuperating from a knee injury, and while his participation is not in jeopardy, his condition will be closely monitored. Berterame’s consistent performance adds to his appeal, particularly with his recent move to Inter Miami.

The selections in attack raise questions, particularly regarding whether Aguirre will opt for González, the Liga MX top scorer, or perhaps exclude Quiñones altogether, reflecting the competition for spots.

Lastly, Chucky Lozano’s situation with San Diego FC poses a challenge, as being sidelined from the club’s plans could negatively impact his prospects for the World Cup unless he finds a new team soon.