Javier Aguirre has long been one of the most influential figures in Mexican football. Known for his adaptability and bold decisions, Aguirre’s coaching career spans decades, with multiple stints at both club and national levels. As the current head coach of Mexico’s national team in the 2025 Gold Cup, his methods continue to spark debate and admiration alike.
Born on December 1, 1958, in Mexico City, Javier Aguirre Onaindía is affectionately known as “El Vasco,” a nickname inspired by his Basque heritage. His journey in football began as a midfielder, known for his rugged style and relentless effort on the pitch. His playing career included notable clubs such as Club América, Atlante FC, and Chivas de Guadalajara in Mexico, along with a stint at Spanish side Osasuna and the Los Angeles Aztecs in the now-defunct North American Soccer League. Between 1983 and 1992, Aguirre earned 59 caps for the Mexico national team and scored one goal. He represented his country in the 1986 FIFA World Cup held in Mexico, showcasing his grit and leadership.
After retiring as a player in 1993, Aguirre quickly transitioned into coaching, starting with Atlante and then making a significant impact at Pachuca. In 1999, he led Pachuca to their first-ever Liga MX title, a breakthrough that established him as a top-tier coach in Mexico. His tactical intelligence and ability to inspire teams under pressure soon caught the attention of the national federation.
Aguirre’s first tenure as head coach of the Mexico national team came in 2001. He was appointed during a period of turmoil, yet he successfully qualified Mexico for the 2002 World Cup in South Korea and Japan. Under his leadership, Mexico advanced to the Round of 16. He returned to the role in 2009 under similar circumstances, once again helping Mexico secure World Cup qualification. In the 2010 tournament in South Africa, Mexico reached the Round of 16 for the second time under his command.
His club coaching career also flourished in Spain, where he made a name for himself in La Liga. At Osasuna, Aguirre took the club to a Copa del Rey final and even secured Champions League qualification. This achievement made him the first Mexican manager to lead a European team to that level of success. He went on to manage Atlético Madrid, restoring the club’s competitiveness and guiding them back into European competition. His time with Real Zaragoza, Espanyol, Leganés, and Mallorca further solidified his reputation as a coach who could transform struggling teams.
Beyond Spain, Aguirre also took on roles in Japan, the United Arab Emirates, and Egypt. He coached the Japan national team from 2014 to 2015, although his tenure ended due to external controversies unrelated to his performance with the squad. At Monterrey in Mexico, he won the CONCACAF Champions League in 2021, demonstrating his enduring ability to win titles across different teams and environments.
Now in 2025, Aguirre has returned to the spotlight as Mexico’s head coach in the Gold Cup. His current strategy includes rotating lineups and giving young players opportunities on the big stage. One of the most talked-about moves was his decision to start 16-year-old Gilberto Mora in an official match, making the teenager the youngest player ever to debut for Mexico. Such bold decisions have characterized Aguirre’s coaching philosophy—he is not afraid to take risks if it means long-term gain.
While results have been promising, with Mexico reaching the semifinals after a solid win over Saudi Arabia, the team still faces challenges. Aguirre is working to find the right balance between veteran presence and youthful energy. He is also addressing concerns such as the form of striker Santiago Giménez, who has yet to score in the tournament.
Javier Aguirre remains a vital figure in Mexican football. His career reflects resilience, intelligence, and an unwavering commitment to improvement. As Mexico pushes forward in the Gold Cup and beyond, his leadership continues to shape the present and future of the national team.
