Mexico's 2026 World Cup Starting XI Uncertain as Coach Aguirre weighs options

Mexico head coach Javier Aguirre has not yet confirmed the starting eleven for the team’s opening match against South Africa on June 11 at the Estadio Azteca. He says the decision hinges on player fitness and tactical flexibility, monitoring minute‑counts and recovery for key attackers such as Santiago Giménez and César Huerta.

The forward line features a crowded pool of options – Raúl Jiménez, Guillermo Martínez and Armando González – giving Aguirre a luxury of choice. In midfield, the captain Edson Álvarez’s role is contested with Erik Lira, who has become the preferred holding midfielder after a stronger showing in recent friendlies.

The right‑back spot also remains a puzzle, with natural centre‑back Israel Reyes being considered for the position versus Jorge Sánchez, who struggled defensively in the final warm‑up. Aguirre stresses that, regardless of who starts, the team will maintain a versatile, balanced system that can shift between formations during the tournament.