MEXICO CITY (AP) — Mexican goalie Guillermo Ochoa He announced on Thursday that he would retire from the national team after the game. world cup And there is a possibility that this tournament could mark the end of his playing career.
Ochoa, who will turn 41 during the World Cup, 5 previous editions He is expected to be the sixth player called up, but his status on the roster has not been officially confirmed.
The goalkeeper, who plays for AEL Limassol in Cyprus, said in an interview with TUDN that he is certain to leave the national team and that full retirement “could be on the cards”.
Mexico coach Javier Aguirre announced a partial squad for Liga MX, including two goalkeepers, leaving room for a third player to play abroad. Although he did not name names, Ochoa is the only player called up for recent games.
“Retirement is definitely difficult, but for me it’s not that difficult because I’ve enjoyed it for many, many years,” Ochoa told the station. “There comes a time when your mind and body say, ‘I gave it my all,’ and you walk away peacefully. That’s what happened to me.”
Ochoa is currently one of four Mexican players to have appeared in five World Cups, along with Antonio Carvajal, Rafael Marquez and Andres Guardado.
Ochoa could play in his sixth World Cup, joining Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
Ochoa has been a starter in the past three World Cups. For now, he appears to be considered a backup to Raul “Tara” Rangel.
Mexico is co-hosting the tournament with the United States and Canada.
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