Javier Aguirre, in trouble

Javier Aguirre, coach of the Mexican national team, is facing difficulties in defining his squad for the Gold Cup due to the clash with the start of the Club World Cup.

In a virtual press conference organized by Concacaf, Aguirre explained that he submitted a preliminary list of 60 players, which could change if América joins Pachuca and Monterrey as the third Mexican team in the international tournament.

"Yes, it affects (the Club World Cup), because there are three clubs. Let's hope América also qualifies for the good of Mexican football, but it affects the planning," he stated.

In the initial list, "Vasco" included seven players from América: Kevin Álvarez, Israel Reyes, Ramón Juárez, Luis Ángel Malagón, Alan Cervantes, Erick Sánchez, and Henry Martín. He did not call up any players from Pachuca or Monterrey due to current restrictions.

Aguirre remains alert to possible changes, as the teams heading to the Club World Cup could be reinforced with players who are part of the group considered by the Tricolor coaching staff.

"We've already sent a preliminary list and could put together a competitive team, but it would also be a problem if any of these three clubs decided to take another player from the list. I understand that the player will want to prioritize being on the national team one year before the World Cup," he said.

Mexico will compete in the Gold Cup from June 14 to July 6 in the United States and Canada, while the FIFA Club World Cup will be held from June 15 to July 13, also in the United States.

Forced to be favorite

Speaking about Mexico's participation in the Gold Cup, "El Vasco" stated, "We have an obligation to be favorites, to accept the title, and that we are contenders for the title because the numbers indicate it; so does history. But respect for all competitors also comes first, because it's very difficult these days and the odds are very even."

In the group stage, the Mexican national team will face Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, and Suriname. The match against the Ticos will be special, as they will be coached by Miguel "Piojo" Herrera, the Tricolor coach during the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

"It's a source of pride that Miguel Herrera is having a good career outside of Mexico. I appreciate him greatly. I played against him when I managed Monterrey, and now with the national team, it's going to be a curious experience," Aguirre commented.

The legend returns

The Costa Rican national team will have a new addition: 38-year-old goalkeeper Keylor Navas, who currently plays for Newell's Old Boys in Argentina. — AP and EFE