Gerardo Martino, after Mexico’s win over Saudi Arabia in the FIFA World Cup 2022, revealed that he is is no longer the the team’s head coach.
“I am responsible for the disappointment we have today. We accept the failure we had in this World Cup. My contract ended when the referee blew the final whistle and there is nothing else I can do,” he said after Mexico’s win.
Mexico defeated Saudi 2-1 but were knocked out of the tournament on goal difference. Argentina and Poland will advance to the round of 16 from Group C.
Martino, who took over the coaching job in 2019 after his separation from Atlanta United, led the team to the 2019 Gold Cup. However, the team struggled during the World Cup qualifies – faced defeats against United States – and they were knocked out of the tournament in the group stage for the first time since 1978.
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“Since I got [to the Federation], I have worked with complete freedom and no interference from anyone. For that, I thank the President and the Sport Directors,” Martino added in the press conference.
Mexico are set to co-host the 2026 edition along with US and Canada. As per multiple reports, their new technical director will be announced in January 2023.
Former Peru coach Ricardo Gareca, Pachuca boss Guillermo Almada and Miguel Herrera are seen as Martino’s potential successors.
Also read: Mexico players, fans heartbroken after first FIFA World Cup group stage exit in 44 years: Watch
Henry Martin and Luis Chaves each scored for Mexico against Saudi Arabia on Wednesday. Mexico had reached the knockout round at the last seven World Cups, second only to Brazil, which has gone through to the round of 16 since 1986.
Mexico opened the tournament in Qatar with a 0-0 draw against Poland and but fell 2-0 to Lionel Messi and Argentina.
