Mexico’s National Team Roster for September 2025

The Mexican National Team officially announced its roster on August 28, 2025, for the upcoming FIFA international break in September.

Under the direction of head coach Javier Aguirre, El Tri will face Japan on Saturday, September 6, in Oakland, California, and South Korea on Tuesday, September 9, in Nashville, Tennessee.

These friendlies come at a decisive moment as Mexico continues building its squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Aguirre’s 26-player list reflects a balance of experience, young talent, and intriguing surprises.

Goalkeepers: A New Era Between the Posts

The absence of Guillermo “Memo” Ochoa, who is currently without a club, marks the beginning of a generational shift. Instead, the goal will be guarded by Luis Ángel Malagón (Club América), Raúl Rangel (Chivas), and Carlos Moreno (Pachuca).

This trio marks a new generation of Mexican goalkeepers preparing to make their mark on the international stage, while 21-year-old Alex Padilla continues to wait in the wings at Athletic Club, hoping to earn a call-up to future squads.

Defenders: A Mix of European Experience and Liga MX Solidity

The defensive line includes Europe-based players like César Montes (Lokomotiv Moscow), Johan Vásquez (Genoa), Mateo Chávez (AZ Alkmaar) and Rodrigo Huescas (Copenhagen), alongside domestic talents. The roster also features Jorge Sánchez (Cruz Azul), Jesús Gallardo (Toluca), Jesús Orozco Chiquete (Cruz Azul), and Juan José Sánchez Purata (Tigres).

This blend of international experience and Liga MX strength offers versatility in both defensive solidity and offensive buildup.

Midfield: Balance and Creativity

In the midfield, leaders like Edson Álvarez (Fenerbahçe) and Orbelín Pineda (AEK Athens) bring stability and international know-how. They’ll be joined by Érick Sánchez (América), Carlos Rodríguez (Cruz Azul), Marcel Ruiz (Toluca), and Erik Lira (Cruz Azul).

This group combines defensive coverage with creativity, giving Aguirre flexibility in shaping Mexico’s style of play. Many would expect teenage pair Gilberto Mora and Elias Montiel to feature in the squad, but the pair are expected to represent the U-20 at the World Cup, starting later this month. Their absence paves the way for the likes of Lira, Sanchez and Rodríguez to justify their inclusion.

Attack: The Return of “Chucky” and Offensive Firepower

The forward line is the most exciting aspect of the roster. Hirving “Chucky” Lozano makes his long-awaited return, now playing for San Diego FC in MLS. Alongside him are proven names such as Raúl Jiménez (Fulham), Santiago Giménez (AC Milan), Roberto Alvarado (Chivas), Alexis Vega (Toluca), César Huerta (Anderlecht), Diego Lainez (Tigres), and the surprising call-up of Germán Berterame (Monterrey), a naturalized Mexican.

With this diverse group of strikers, Mexico boasts options for pace, power, and creativity in attack. However, the absence of Julián Quiñones and Ángel Sepúlveda stands out, particularly surprising in the case of the latter, who opened the Liga MX season with five goals in six matches for Cruz Azul.

A Team in Transition

This roster clearly shows Aguirre’s intent to refresh the squad. The absence of long-time figures like Ochoa, paired with the inclusion of new faces such as Berterame, signals to a plan for the future.

By blending European-based players with Liga MX standouts, Mexico is working toward a more balanced and competitive lineup.

Tests Against Japan and South Korea

Both upcoming rivals are known for their intensity, speed, and discipline. Facing Japan and South Korea in the U.S. will provide valuable insights into Mexico’s readiness, especially in testing how newcomers adapt and whether Lozano and Giménez can step up as leaders in attack.

Complete List of Call-Ups

Goalkeepers: Luis Malagón, Raúl Rangel, Carlos Moreno

Defenders: Jorge Sánchez, Rodrigo Huescas, César Montes, Johan Vásquez, Jesús Orozco, Mateo Chávez, Jesús Gallardo, Juan Sánchez Purata

Midfielders: Edson Álvarez, Marcel Ruiz, Erik Lira, Orbelin Pineda, Carlos Rodríguez, Érick Sánchez

Forwards: Roberto Alvarado, Raúl Jiménez, Santiago Giménez, Alexis Vega, Hirving Lozano, Germán Berterame, César Huerta, Diego Lainez

The September 2025 roster highlights Mexico’s transformation under Javier Aguirre. With Lozano’s return, Berterame’s debut, and Ochoa’s absence, the squad reflects both renewal and ambition. The upcoming matches will reveal whether this mix of youth and experience can spark confidence on the road to 2026.

Do you think Mexico’s mix of young talent and experienced players is enough to compete with top international teams heading into 2026?

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