Javier Aguirre: I Leave with Great Pride, We Restored This Team's Identity

Mexico coach Javier Aguirre has endorsed Rafael Márquez to lead Mexico into the future, following the co-hosts' World Cup campaign ending in a 3-2 defeat to England. This loss marked the conclusion of Aguirre's third tenure at the helm. England secured their spot in the quarterfinals after withstanding Mexico's late surge.

"I would have liked to bid farewell to my people with a victory. This hurts. We tried," Aguirre told the media. "The players should leave with their heads held high. Today, this shouldn't have happened. We couldn't capitalize, but I want to thank them all," he added.

The match, delayed by an hour due to adverse weather around the Azteca Stadium, was played in front of an impassioned home crowd, which Aguirre often described as "Mexico's 12th player." Fans cheered Mexico on in the final stages, chanting "yes, we can" as the hosts pushed for an equalizer. However, England held firm, advancing to the quarterfinals where they will face Norway in Miami on Saturday.

Aguirre stated he departs with pride despite the pain of elimination, highlighting the team's unity and renewed connection with the fans. "I leave with great pride. These players made me very happy. We restored the sense of belonging and the identity of this team," the coach added.

Márquez, who captained Mexico in five World Cups and worked alongside Aguirre during the tournament, is expected to succeed him. "I wish him all the best. He is more than capable and will do better than me," Aguirre concluded.