After Mexico’s exit in the round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup, the national team is gearing up for a fresh start with Rafael Márquez as the frontrunner to become head coach. Alongside him, former team icon Andrés Guardado is expected to take on the role of assistant coach, signaling a reunion of past stars aiming to shape the future of El Tri.

According to former national player Carlos Hermosillo, Guardado’s appointment as Márquez’s assistant has been in the works for several months. Hermosillo revealed that Guardado has been preparing for this role by pursuing coaching courses, fully aware of his future responsibilities. “Guardado was sent to train, knowing he would be Rafa’s assistant. Rafa’s appointment is certain, and I know Guardado will be the assistant. He’s currently taking the course,” Hermosillo shared during a sports analysis program.

This development aligns with statements made in April by Duilio Davino, Sporting Director of the Men’s Senior National Team, who identified Guardado as a strong candidate for the new coaching staff.

Since October 2025, Guardado—nicknamed “El Principito”—has been honing his coaching skills, including practical experience with the youth teams at Real Betis, the Spanish club where he played for seven seasons.

Adding to this promising technical team could be former goalkeeper Alfredo Talavera. Reports from FOX Sports suggest Talavera, who played for Toluca and Pumas, is being considered for the goalkeeping coach position, though no official confirmation has been made.

With Márquez at the helm, Guardado as his right hand, and possibly Talavera joining, the Mexican Football Federation appears committed to building a coaching staff rooted in the legacy of players who defined an era. Their mission: to lead Mexico confidently toward the 2030 World Cup, blending experience with a vision for progress.