Javier Aguirre Sends Clear Message to Hirving Lozano and Mexico Ahead of the 2026 World Cup

Javier Aguirre, head coach of the Mexico national football team, confirmed that he has spoken directly with Hirving Lozano about his current situation and his chances of being part of the 2026 FIFA World Cup squad. Aguirre made his position unmistakably clear: the winger will only be considered if he is playing regularly at club level ahead of the tournament.

The Mexican manager traveled to San Diego to meet with Lozano and discuss his present role in the Major League Soccer, where his playing time will directly determine his chances of wearing the national team jersey again at the World Cup.

Aguirre delivered a blunt message: “If he doesn’t play, he won’t go to the World Cup.” The statement leaves no room for interpretation and places sporting merit above Lozano’s past contributions or historical importance to the national team.

The coach stressed that he wants players who maintain competitive rhythm and consistent minutes on the field, a key requirement for building a squad capable of competing at the highest level in June 2026.

Lozano currently holds a lucrative contract in MLS, earning millions of dollars per year, a situation that limits his options to move to another league where he might see more consistent action. That reality complicates his chances of securing a leading role before the World Cup.

Aguirre reiterated that Lozano must find a club where he plays regularly, making it clear that the national team will not reserve a spot without meeting that essential condition. The stance reflects the manager’s history of firm decisions when shaping his World Cup squads.

With Mexico set to co-host the FIFA World Cup 2026, Aguirre is focused on balancing experience with current form, prioritizing players who prove their quality on the pitch. In the coming months, Lozano’s situation will be one of the most closely followed storylines as Aguirre fine-tunes his final roster for a World Cup Mexico will play on home soil.