Mexico coach Rafael Márquez defended the return of Hirving "Chucky" Lozano, insisting the LA Galaxy veteran can again be a "difference-maker" for El Tri. Lozano, 31, has not played for Mexico since a November 2025 friendly with Uruguay and was omitted from the World Cup roster. Márquez said he believes Lozano can still offer something more, citing the impact he can deliver. The winger joined the Galaxy on loan last month and has recorded one goal and one assist in eight appearances.

Márquez, taking over from Javier Aguirre, said his first camp will maintain the foundation and style from Mexico's World Cup run, which ended in a 3-2 round-of-16 loss to England. There will be few changes given limited preparation time, though new faces include Chivas prospects Hugo Camberos and Santiago Sandoval. Key attackers Raúl Jiménez and Julián Quiñones are absent due to injury.

Mexico faces Colombia on Saturday, a team they have not beaten in their last six meetings. Subsequent friendlies are scheduled against Peru, the United States on Oct. 3, and Chile on Oct. 6. Aguirre, whose contract expired after the World Cup, recently joined Valencia as manager.