Guadalajara native Guillermo Ochoa, 40, has been called up by Mexico’s national team manager Javier Aguirre for upcoming friendly matches against Portugal and Belgium, potentially setting the stage for a sixth FIFA World Cup appearance. The call-up comes after an injury to Luis Ángel Malagón, the América goalkeeper who was previously considered the frontrunner for the starting position, has opened a spot in the squad.
Malagón sustained an Achilles tendon rupture, sidelining him for at least eight months, according to reports. This injury prompted Aguirre to reassess the goalkeeping options ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Mexico, the United States and Canada. While Carlos Acevedo of Santos Laguna was previously considered a contender, Ochoa has emerged as a strong candidate to reclaim the role he held in the 2014, 2018, and 2022 World Cups.
Ochoa currently plays for AEL Limassol in Cyprus. He last appeared for the Mexican national team in a Concacaf Nations League match against Honduras in San Pedro Sula in 2024. Despite criticism at times, his experience and leadership are seen as valuable assets, particularly as Mexico prepares to host matches during the 2026 tournament.
Aguirre’s squad selection for the upcoming friendlies also reflects other changes. Álvaro Fidalgo, who plays for Betis, has been included in the roster after choosing to represent Mexico. Fidalgo’s inclusion is intended to bolster the midfield, particularly with concerns surrounding the rehabilitation of Luis Chávez and Edson Álvarez. Obed Vargas, currently with Atlético de Madrid, has also been called up and will compete for a place in the lineup.
Santiago Giménez, the AC Milan forward, is recovering from an injury and is expected to return to training soon. In his absence, Armando Ant González, Chivas’ leading scorer with nine goals in 11 games, will have an opportunity to prove himself. Aguirre will also be evaluating Germán Berterame and Julián Quiñones for forward positions, while Raúl Jiménez is expected to maintain his place in the squad.
The confirmed roster for the upcoming FIFA date includes goalkeepers Raúl Rangel (Chivas), Carlos Acevedo (Santos), and Guillermo Ochoa (AEL Limassol). The defensive line features Jorge Sánchez (PAOK), Richard Ledezma (Chivas), César Montes (Lokomotiv), Israel Reyes (América), Johan Vásquez (Génoa), Everardo López (Toluca), Jesús Gallardo (Toluca), and Jesús Angulo (Tigres). Midfielders include Erik Lira (Cruz Azul), Denzell García (Bravos), Carlos Rodríguez (Cruz Azul), Orbelín Pineda (AEK Atenas), Obed Vargas (Atlético de Madrid), Álvaro Fidalgo (Betis), Erick Sánchez (América), and Brian Gutiérrez (Chivas). The forward line consists of Roberto Alvarado (Chivas), Guillermo Martínez (Pumas), Raúl Jiménez (Fulham), Julián Quiñones (Al Qasiah), Alexis Vega (Toluca), Armando González (Chivas), and Germán Berterame (Inter Miami).
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