Ecuador football team seeks new coach after World Cup exit

Ecuador’s national team was eliminated from the 2026 World Cup after a 2‑0 defeat to Mexico, conceding four goals in three matches and drawing sharp criticism of coach Sebastián Beccacece. The federation confirmed Beccacece’s departure on 30 June 2026 and began searching for a replacement to lead the squad toward the 2030 qualifiers.

Uruguayan manager Guillermo Almada, recently appointed head coach of Club América in Mexico, was widely mentioned as a possible candidate. Almada rejected the speculation, stating, “Although it would be an honour to be considered, my reality is América. I am completely focused on this project and there is no space to think about anything else.” He added, “I have no interest in national team offers at this time.”

With Almada ruled out, Ecuador continues to evaluate other options as it aims to rebuild after the disappointing World Cup campaign.