Mexican goalkeeping legend Guillermo Ochoa will retire after the 2026 World Cup

Mexican goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa said Thursday that he will retire from the national team after the World Cup and that the tournament could also mean the end of his playing career.

Ochoa, who will turn 41 at the World Cup, has appeared in the previous five editions and is expected to be called up for a sixth-place finish, although his place on the roster has not yet been officially confirmed.

The goalkeeper, who plays for AEL Limassol in Cyprus, said in an interview with TUDN that his departure from the national team is a certainty and that his full retirement “could also be on the cards.”

Mexico coach Javier Aguirre announced a partial squad with two goalkeepers from Liga MX and left a spot open for a third to play abroad. Although he didn’t mention him by name, Ochoa is the only one called up for recent games.

“Retirement is undoubtedly difficult, but in my case it will not be so difficult because I have enjoyed it for so many years and for so long,” Ochoa told the channel. “There comes a time when your body and mind say, ‘You gave it your all’ and you leave peacefully, and that will be my case.”

Ochoa is currently one of four Mexicans to have competed in five World Cups, along with Antonio Carbajal, Rafael Márquez and Andrés Guardado.

Ochoa could join Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi in a sixth World Cup.

Ochoa has been the starter at the past three World Cups. For now, he seems to be considered Raúl ‘Tala’ Rangel’s backup.

Mexico is co-hosting the tournament along with the United States and Canada.

Published on May 1, 2026