Mexico’s national soccer team is making headlines after manager Diego Cocca revealed the 40-man preliminary roster for the upcoming CONCACAF Nations League finals in June. Two of Mexico’s biggest stars, Hirving “Chucky” Lozano and Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez, have been left off the list, sparking major controversy among fans and experts alike.
Lozano, a star player for Italy’s Serie A champion Napoli, was ruled out due to an injury, while Chicharito – who holds the record as Mexico’s all-time highest goalscorer – was simply omitted from the team. This has caused many to question Cocca’s decision to leave two of Mexico’s most recognizable players out of such an important competition.
It is no secret that Chicharito and Lozano are beloved by Mexican fans worldwide, with millions wearing their jerseys during matches or sporting them proudly in public. Being left off the roster for this year’s competition certainly serves as a blow to both players and their supporters alike. It also presents a significant challenge to Mexico’s chances at victory in the tournament.
The CONCACAF Nations League will kick off with a June 15 semifinal against the United States at Las Vegas’ Allegiant Stadium where Mexico will be looking to make history by winning its first major trophy since hosting the 2011 Gold Cup. With such high stakes on the line, it remains to be seen how much impact Chicharito and Lozano missing from this year’s competition could potentially have on Mexico’s performance.
Despite being left off this year’s roster however, both players remain optimistic about their future prospects with Mexico Soccer and there is already speculation about them potentially returning to play for their country when they debut new Mexico soccer jersey 2023.
Though it may be disappointing for fans not to see either of these two superstars grace the pitch during this year’s CONCACAF Finals, it is clear that neither player nor their supporters have given up hope just yet. Regardless of what happens come June 15th, one thing remains certain; Chicharito and Lozano still mean a great deal to Mexican football fans all over the world.