○One of the most iconic figures in soccer management has reappeared to talk about the Mexican national team. FIFA Head of Soccer Development and former Arsenal manager Arsne Wenger shared his thoughts on the national team.
At a symposium held ahead of the World Cup draw, the French coach was asked about the situation facing Javier Aguirre’s side.
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Wenger was quick to point out his opinion that the Mexican national team, at least in the past, lacked the mental fortitude needed to progress further in the game.
“Mexico has a strong football culture, they have remarkable technical qualities, and perhaps the mental aspect was the factor that prevented them from reaching at least the quarter-finals. But we know more about this issue because we live with them every day,” he said.
The strategist added that he sees the Mexican national team as a team with great potential to qualify, but sees it as a sign of progress rather than a potential star of the tournament.
“Mexico has always qualified. This time it wasn’t their usual performance, but it has been the case for the last few years. Now is a good time for them to make a breakthrough, or rather show progress. It could be a pleasant surprise,” he said.
Wenger also insisted that Javier Aguirre deserves to be nominated for the Ballon d’Or, but declined to delve into the Tricolore’s current performance. “Yes, of course he deserves it. Easy answer,” he said.
It is worth noting that Arsne Wenger is one of the main reasons why Carlos Vela made the leap from Chivas’s youth academy to European football. It was he who made Arsenal’s decision to sign the Mexican striker. In the end, this opportunity allowed Vela to build a career in European football, but his best performances would later come at Real Sociedad in Spain.
