Who is Rafa Marquez? Mexico head coach returns to USMNT rivalry where El Tri boss is hated
As the United States men face off against their CONCACAF rivals Mexico on Saturday in an international friendly, the third of this lengthy window, many USMNT fans will be surprised to recognize the new El Tri head coach.
Rafa Marquez, a former captain of the Mexican national team, has been appointed as the new head coach of the USMNT, succeeding Javier Aguirre. Marquez, a legendary player for Mexico, made 148 international appearances and scored 17 goals. Known for his tenacity and gritty play, he holds the Mexico record for most World Cup appearances (19) and became the fourth player to appear at five consecutive World Cups.
Marquez's tenure with the USMNT began after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where Mexico was eliminated in a heartbreaking fashion against England.
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