Javier Aguirre Moves Jorge Sánchez Into Line for South Korea — Selección De Fútbol De México
Selección de fútbol de méxico is set for changes before its second World Cup 2026 match against South Korea, with Javier Aguirre weighing Jorge Sánchez for the right back spot. Israel Reyes would come out of that role, a move tied to South Korea’s speed and Mexico’s need to adjust after the opening match.
That shift would be one of several Aguirre is considering for Group A. César Montes was sent off in the final minutes against South Africa, and Edson Álvarez would be the natural replacement for him in the back line.
Aguirre's Right-Back Change
The clearest change points to Sánchez over Reyes. The idea is simple: Mexico wants more help on the right side against a South Korea side described as fast, and Aguirre is looking at personnel that can handle that pace before kickoff.
Reyes had the job at right back, but the reported plan would move him out of the spot. Sánchez would get the minutes instead, giving Mexico a different look on the flank for its second match of the tournament.
César Montes And Edson Álvarez
Mexico’s defense has another opening because Montes was sent off late against South Africa. That red card leaves a hole in the center of the back line, and Álvarez is the player viewed as the natural replacement there.
That detail keeps the defensive reshuffle from being limited to one position. Aguirre is not just sorting the right side; he is also dealing with the center of the defense after the late dismissal in the previous match.
Gilberto Mora And Brian Gutiérrez
Another possible change involves Gilberto Mora, who is under consideration for a starting role after coming off the bench against South Africa. If he starts, Brian Gutiérrez would be the one sacrificed from the opening XI.
Gutiérrez started that match and was cautioned during it, and he also looked hesitant at times. That gives Aguirre a second lineup decision that goes beyond the back line, with one starter at risk of losing his place as Mexico prepares for South Korea.
Memo Ochoa would not get minutes in this version of the lineup. For Mexico, the message is clear: Aguirre is treating the South Korea match as a chance to tighten the defense and adjust the attack around the pieces that best fit the opponent.
