The Mexican National Team is set to play Japan in the first friendly in preparation for the 2026 World Cup. Many were surprised by the roster Javier Aguirre picked for the September international break.
One of the players that was not included in the list was Guillermo Ochoa, who was a part of the Gold Cup roster this summer. Despite no longer being seen as the starter goalkeeper, Ochoa is seen as a fundamental part of the squad due to his experience.
Ochoa currently does not have a club as he remains a free agent. He is linked to a move to Europe and a move back to Liga MX. In a press conference ahead of the match against Japan, Javier Aguirre was asked about Ochoa's absence from the sqaud.
Aguirre mentioned that Ochoa has not played football over the last few weeks and has not been part of a club. While detailing why Ochoa was not part of the squad, Aguirre made bold claims, suggesting that the legendary goalkeeper is not guaranteed to play in the 2026 World Cup due to his decision.
Javier Aguirre Won't 'Gift' Ochoa his 6th World Cup Appearance
The 2026 World Cup would mark Guillermo Ochoa's sixth World Cup appearance with the Mexican National Team.
Ochoa would make history along with two of the greatest players of all time in Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, if they also play the upcoming World Cup. Ochoa would be the Mexican player with the most World Cup appearances over Andrés Guardado, Antonio Carbajal, and Rafael Márquez.
Despite being close to history, Aguirre was clear that he will not call up Ochoa if he does not find a team ahead of the tournament next summer.
"On the topic of six World Cups, I don't give away anything. Nothing. If Memo (Ochoa) deserves to be here, or is here, it's because he's doing things well, because he helps us, and he has an important role in the dressing room. If he doesn't have a team and is not on form, he won't come, that I guarantee you... I am confident that Memo will find a team soon, will be in form soon, and if he's good, then he will be an option along with five or six keepers [we have in mind]."Javier Aguirre
"Lo único que busca Aguirre es el pretexto de que juegue para llevarlo. No está al nivel de Malagón que está por encima de él" ⚽🔥@DavidFaitelson_ sobre la consigna del Vasco: si Ochoa no tiene equipo, no será convocado
— Línea de 4 (@Lineade4TUDN) September 6, 2025
🔴 #LineaDe4 EN VIVO por TUDN pic.twitter.com/an2SDnjhRc
Mexico fans, would you bring Guillermo Ochoa for the 2026 World Cup roster? Let us know what you think!
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