Antonio Mohamed Ends All Speculation: “Never” Coaching Mexico

Toluca manager Antonio Mohamed has permanently closed the door on leading the Mexico national team. The Argentine coach made the definitive statement in recent interviews with ESPN and TUDN. This ends years of speculation linking the successful Liga MX boss to the El Tri job.His declaration comes fresh off winning the 2025 Apertura title with Toluca. Despite his proven track record in Mexican football, Mohamed cited past frustrations with the federation’s hiring process.

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Mohamed was direct when asked about the possibility. “No, I already said I will never [manage Mexico],” he told ESPN. He suggested the opportunity had definitively passed him by. The coach felt he was never seriously considered for the role.According to his TUDN interview, he was only ever part of a larger candidate pool. Mohamed stated the national team has already moved on with its future plans. His comments follow the recent appointment of Javier Aguirre as head coach.Aguirre returned for a third stint after Jaime Lozano’s departure in 2024. This appointment formally ended any lingering possibility for Mohamed. The decorated manager now focuses solely on his club career with Toluca.

Mexico’s Managerial Future is Already Set

As Mohamed indicated, Mexico has a clear succession plan in place. The federation is looking for stability after four coaching changes in two years. Their long-term vision now centers on legendary defender Rafael Márquez.Márquez is slated to take over after the 2026 World Cup hosted by North America. He is currently serving as an assistant under Aguirre. This mentorship is designed to prepare him for the top job.The former Barcelona star managed Barcelona Atlètic before this move. He is being groomed to lead El Tri into the 2030 World Cup cycle. This plan aims to bring much-needed consistency to the program.

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The search for Mexico’s next coach is conclusively over for Antonio Mohamed. His legacy will remain firmly in Liga MX, while El Tri’s future is entrusted to a new generation led by Rafael Márquez.

A quick knowledge drop for you

Why did Antonio Mohamed refuse the Mexico job?

Mohamed stated he felt hurt by not being genuinely considered in the past. He told ESPN there were “things that hurt me,” leading to his final decision to never take the role.

Who will coach Mexico after Javier Aguirre?

Rafael Márquez is the designated successor. The plan is for the former national team captain to take over following the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

How many Liga MX titles has Antonio Mohamed won?

He has won five Liga MX championships. His recent 2025 Apertura victory with Toluca was his second consecutive title with the club.

What is Rafael Márquez’s coaching experience?

Márquez spent one season as head coach of Barcelona Atlètic, the club’s reserve team. He is now learning as an assistant with the Mexican national team.

When did Javier Aguirre become Mexico’s coach again?

Aguirre was appointed in late 2024. He took over after Jaime Lozano was dismissed following the Copa América tournament that same year.

Trusted Sources: ESPN, TUDN.