The Mexico game was his last – new manager ready hours after World Cup exit

Just hours after Mexico crashed out of the World Cup, Javier Aguirre has his successor – and it is a familiar face who takes over.

As one of three host countries, Mexico delivered a strong tournament, propelled by the home crowd at Azteca. But the quarter-finals proved to be a step too far – after a nerve-wracking 3-2 finish against England.

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Jude Bellingham opened the scoring with two goals in 90 seconds, before Julián Quiñones reduced the deficit late in the first half. England’s red card on Jarell Quansah gave new hope – but Harry Kane’s penalty shortly afterwards dampened optimism. A Mexican penalty gave new life, but they were never able to break England down again – and the home World Cup was over.

It didn’t help to get help from a Ted Lasso star!

Aguirre resigned – and Marquez takes over immediately

After the game, Aguirre announced in the press conference that he is stepping down after 34 games as manager.

“I wish I could say goodbye to the people with a victory. It hurts. We tried, he said.

“The players can walk with their heads held high. Today we did not succeed, but I want to thank them all. I walk with pride. These players made me very happy. We restored the sense of belonging and identity of this team.

Now former Barcelona player and Mexico legend Rafa Márquez is taking over. He captained Mexico in five World Cup finals and has worked closely with Aguirre in this championship.

Another manager who loses his job during the World Cup

Aguirre is one of several national team managers who have lost their jobs during this World Cup. Tunisia fired Hervé Renard just days after he was hired – after the opening loss to Sweden. The Netherlands’ Ronald Koeman and Germany’s Julian Nagelsmann were also fired after early exits.

For Mexico, the last eight was not necessarily a bad result – especially considering the draw against England. The hosts fought until the very end.

A win against England would have provided a very tempting path to the semi-finals, with Norway as the opponent in the second half of the draw. But that chance now goes to England – who must try to stop Erling Haaland, the man who has already scored seven goals and equalled Mbappé and Messi in the Golden Boot race.

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