Javier Aguirre considered for South Korea soccer coach role

Former Mexico and Japan manager Javier Aguirre is being reported as a leading candidate to take charge of the South Korea national football team. Mexican media outlets FOX Sports and AS México say the Korean Football Association has started talks to invite him, while the coach has declined a multimillion‑dollar offer from Saudi club Al‑Ittihad.

Aguirre led Mexico to the round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup and previously managed Japan between 2014‑2015. He is praised for defensive organization and side‑attack tactics, and has previously been linked to the Korean job. No official confirmation from the Korea Football Association or Aguirre has been released, and observers note his age and contract terms as possible hurdles. If appointed, he could face South Korea in future Asian Cup contests.