The name of Guillermo “Memo” Ochoa is once again at the center of the Mexican National Team’s conversation. After several months out of the call-up list, the experienced goalkeeper is expected to return to the Tricolor during March’s FIFA dates, when Mexico will face Portugal and Belgium in a series of highly demanding matches on the road to the 2026 World Cup.
According to information published by journalist Rubén Rodríguez, Ochoa’s return is part of Javier Aguirre’s plan, who is seeking to gather the players he has selected as the basis for the World Cup debut. The intention would be to work with a group close to the 26 players that will open the tournament, a little more than two months before the start of the World Cup.
A return with a different role
According to the report, Aguirre is not only contemplating the return of Guillermo Ochoa, but also intends to evaluate him in a different role than the one he has traditionally occupied as an undisputed starter.
After months of absence, Memo would have the opportunity to show his level and leadership in a key training camp.
Possibly the last one before the definitive quotas for the World Cup are defined.
For Guillermo Ochoa, this call-up would represent a decisive opportunity in his career.
He seeks to become the first Mexican player to play in six World Cups.
The margin for error is minimal and every training session, as well as every minute on the field, can be decisive.
High level tests for the Tri
The matches against Portugal and Belgium will also be among the most demanding games for the Mexican National Team before the World Cup.
Facing top-level European opponents will allow the coaching staff to gauge the team’s real performance and evaluate players with international experience such as Guillermo Ochoa.
Ochoa's return is part of Javier Aguirre's plan
QuéOnnda.com
Ochoa’s present and recent history
Guillermo Ochoa is currently living a new stage in his career after joining AEL Limassol in Cyprus.
His arrival in a less media-friendly league influenced his absence from recent call-ups, although he has remained active with his sights set on the World Cup.
Ochoa’s last call-up to the Mexican National Team was for the 2025 Gold Cup, a tournament in which he was not a starter, as Luis Malagón was the main goalkeeper.
His last match with El Tri dates back to November 2024, in the first leg of the Nations League quarterfinals against Honduras.
He suffered an injury that kept him out of the second leg.
For Mexican fans in the United States, the possible return of Guillermo Ochoa not only revives the goalkeeping debate, but also marks a key moment in the final stretch to the 2026 World Cup.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
