“We know the quality Gilberto has”: Márquez talks Mora’s Europe future

After scoring a record-breaking first goal for Mexico, Gilberto Mora drew praise from Rafa Márquez for his performance against Colombia. El Tri’s new head coach said that, given the qualities he has shown and the development Mora has received, he has the potential to keep progressing and eventually join a major European club.

“We have to look after him”

Márquez played down the significance of Mora currently wearing the No. 10 shirt, stressing that his development must take precedence over any expectations associated with that number.

“I’ve said that, given the foundation and upbringing Gilberto has, the number is just a number,” Márquez said. “I have no doubt that he will continue to develop, and I hope we get to see him at a major European club.”

The Mexico coach also emphasized the need to carefully manage the player’s development and prevent the attention surrounding him from having a negative impact on his progress: “We know the quality Gilberto has. We have to look after him, protect him and help him develop. Hopefully, we’ll see many more performances like this from him.”

Unaware of possible Vega exit

Asked about reports that Toluca attacker Alexis Vega could step away from the Mexico national team, Márquez said he had no information about the matter at this point.

“I don’t have that information,” the 47-year-old said. “I have no idea. I’ll speak to him. He’s doing well with Toluca. We decided to give him some rest because of his knee, and we have to look after him.”

The coach said that was the reason for Vega’s absence against Colombia, explaining that the priority was to avoid aggravating any physical issues.

Adrian MaciasMexico finds answers against Colombia

Beyond the result itself, Márquez was pleased with how his team responded during the game and highlighted the range of options available to him within the roster.

“We brought some fresh legs into the team. I was very pleased with the squad we called up. Everyone is ready to play and willing to contribute,” he said.

The coach also put the 1-1 draw into perspective, noting that Mexico had faced a demanding opponent with significant quality on the ball as well as considerable physical strength: “We came up against a quality team that is very strong physically, so this result has value.”

The draw against Colombia therefore gave the coaching staff plenty of positives to take away. In addition to seeing the continued development of young players such as Mora, Mexico was able to give playing time to several members of the squad and broaden its options ahead of the national team’s upcoming matches.