Javier Aguirre has officially announced the 26-man roster that will represent Mexico at the 2025 Gold Cup, as El Tri aims to defend their title. This tournament marks the last major competition before Mexico co-hosts the 2026 FIFA World Cup, adding extra significance to the squad selection.
The roster announcement wasn't without its challenges. Aguirre had to make some difficult decisions due to the participation of Liga MX teams Monterrey and Pachuca in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, which overlaps with the Gold Cup. This meant that certain players from those clubs were unavailable for selection.
Goalkeepers:
The goalkeeping position features a mix of experience and youth. Guillermo Ochoa, the veteran goalkeeper, earns a spot as he aims to participate in a historic sixth World Cup. Joining him are Luis Ángel Malagón from América and Raúl Rangel from Chivas, providing solid options in goal. Andrés Sánchez and Alex Padilla are also included, adding depth to the position.
Defenders:
The defensive lineup showcases a blend of domestic and international talent. Key players include Jorge Sánchez from Cruz Azul, Jesús Orozco also from Cruz Azul, and Julián Araujo from Bournemouth. European-based players such as César Montes (FC Lokomotiv), Johan Vásquez (Genoa), and Matéo Chávez (AZ Alkmaar) bring valuable experience. Israel Reyes from Club América and Jesús Gallardo from Toluca round out the defensive options. José Castillo and Luis Romo also contribute to the back line.
Midfielders:
The midfield boasts a mix of seasoned players and emerging talents. Edson Álvarez from West Ham United and Luis Chávez from FC Dynamo Moscow provide a strong central presence. The Cruz Azul duo of Erik Lira and Carlos Rodríguez add further quality, alongside Marcel Ruíz from Toluca and Orbelín Pineda from AEK Athens. Gilberto Mora earns a surprising spot in the final roster, adding a different dynamic to the midfield.
Forwards:
The forward line is led by experienced players and promising young stars. Santiago Gimenez, now with AC Milan, is expected to lead the attack. Raúl Jiménez from Fulham and Ángel Sepúlveda from Cruz Azul provide additional firepower. Julián Quiñones, now playing for Al Qadsiah, and Roberto Alvarado from Chivas offer different attacking dimensions. Efraín Álvarez from Chivas and Cesar Huerta from Anderlecht complete the forward options.
Notable Absences:
Hirving “Chucky” Lozano was initially included in the preliminary roster, raising excitement about his potential return to El Tri after over a year. However, a hamstring injury has sidelined the San Diego FC player. Club América striker Henry Martín also misses out due to an injury that has lingered since the end of the Liga MX season.
Mexico will play friendly matches against Switzerland and Turkey before starting their Gold Cup campaign against the Dominican Republic on Saturday, June 14. The team aims to successfully defend their Gold Cup title and build momentum heading into the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which they will co-host.
