Javier Aguirre, the head coach of the Mexican national football team, is in the process of finalizing his player selection for the upcoming 2026 World Cup. One player under scrutiny is Julián Quiñones, a Colombian forward who has become a naturalized Mexican citizen. Quiñones has gained recognition for his scoring prowess in the Arab league, yet he remains somewhat under the radar within the national team.
Aguirre Evaluates Julián Quiñones’ Role
Javier Aguirre expressed mixed feelings about Quiñones’ contributions to the team. Despite recent impressive performances, including 23 goals scored with Al Qadsiah, Aguirre believes Quiñones has not yet established enough credentials to secure a starting position. Aguirre commented on Quiñones’ tendency to exert excessive pressure on himself due to his naturalization status, advising him to remain calm and focus on his abilities.
Addressing Mental Blockages
Aguirre’s coaching philosophy emphasizes reducing self-imposed pressure. He reassured Quiñones that playing for Mexico as a naturalized citizen should not be a source of stress. The coaching staff, alongside the player, has worked on overcoming mental hurdles since the Gold Cup in 2025. Quiñones himself acknowledged feeling more relaxed and confident, citing the continuous support from the coaching team.
Competition for World Cup Spot
As the team prepares for the October FIFA match window, Quiñones is engaged in a competitive battle for a spot in the roster. His primary rival is Germán Berterame, another naturalized player, who can also play as a forward or winger. This competition intensifies Aguirre’s search for a third forward to complement established players like Raúl Jiménez and Santiago Giménez.
- Player: Julián Quiñones
- Current Club: Al Qadsiah
- Goals Scored: 23
- Competition: Germán Berterame
- Coach: Javier Aguirre
- Event: October FIFA Matches
As the selection process continues, Aguirre remains focused on ensuring that he chooses players who not only have talent but also the right mindset for the challenges ahead. The upcoming months will be crucial for Julián Quiñones as he seeks to solidify his place in the national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
