Mexico U-17: History, Talent, and the Road to the 2025 World Cup

Mexico’s youth team prepares to shine in Qatar with a promising generation
Mexico v Argentina: Quarter-finals - FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025
Mexico v Argentina: Quarter-finals - FIFA U-20 World Cup Chile 2025 | Eurasia Sport Images/GettyImages

The Mexico U-17 national team has historically been one of the country’s most successful youth categories, serving as a breeding ground for talents who later shine in Liga MX and abroad.

With two World Cup titles and several appearances in the final stages, El Tri U-17 represents the future of Mexican football.

Every international tournament has reinforced the importance of this category in player development. Since its debut in the FIFA U-17 World Cup in 1985, Mexico has consistently competed at a high level, establishing itself as a benchmark in CONCACAF and gaining global recognition.

The development of young prospects is reflected in players who today stand out in the senior national team and top leagues around the world.

Now, the team led by Carlos Cariño is preparing for the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025, with a group of talented players, many of them sons of former professionals who inherit both passion and skill.

This squad combines youth, technical ability, and a hunger for success, aiming to make a mark in the tournament and continue the historic legacy of El Tri U-17.

Mexico U-17 Squad for Qatar 2025

Goalkeepers:

  • Abdón Turrubiates (León)
  • Matías Velázquez (Santos Laguna)
  • Santiago López (Toluca)

Defenders:

  • Jhonnatan Grajales (Chivas)
  • Michael Corona (León)
  • José Navarro (Pachuca)
  • Adrián Villa (Pachuca)
  • Félix Contreras (Real Salt Lake)
  • Ian Olvera (Xolos)

Midfielders:

  • Íñigo Borgio (CD Leganés)
  • Gael García (Chivas)
  • Óscar Pineda (Chicago Fire SC)
  • Kenneth Martínez (FC Juárez)
  • Karín Hernández (León)
  • Jorge Sánchez (Rayados)

Forwards:

  • Luis Gamboa (Atlas)
  • Alex Gutiérrez (Cruz Azul)
  • José Mancilla (Pumas)
  • Aldo De Nigris (Rayados)
  • Máximo Reyes (Santos Laguna)
  • Lucca Vuoso (Santos Laguna)

Standout players include Lucca VuosoAldo De NigrisMáximo Reyes, and Abdón Turrubiates, all of whom bring pedigree and promise to make an impact in the World Cup.

Group F: First Challenge in Qatar

Mexico is in Group F, facing:

  • South Korea
  • Ivory Coast
  • Switzerland

The debut match will be against South Korea on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at 7:00 AM Central Mexico Time at the Khalifa International Stadium. This match marks the beginning of a new era for El Tri U-17 as they aim to emulate the successes of past generations.

The history and achievements of Mexico’s U-17 team speak for themselves: World Cup titles, regional dominance, and the development of players who eventually reach the senior national team.

The generation traveling to Qatar 2025 faces the challenge of continuing that legacy, showcasing skill, determination, and national pride.

Who do you think will be the standout player for El Tri U-17 in the Qatar 2025 World Cup?

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