Al-Ittihad eyes Javier Aguirre for coaching role after 2026 World Cup
Following his tenure with the Mexican national team at the 2026 World Cup, Javier Aguirre is reportedly a top target for Saudi club Al-Ittihad.
Saudi club Al-Ittihad has shown interest in appointing Mexico national team coach Javier Aguirre. According to journalist David Faitelson, the experienced manager is considered one of the primary candidates to lead the team following the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup.
Currently, Aguirre remains fully focused on Mexico's campaign at the tournament. The coach has already confirmed he will step down from his current role once their participation in the World Cup ends, with Rafa Marquez set to replace him. Regarding the rumors of a move to Saudi Arabia, Aguirre stated that he has instructed his agent to postpone any discussions until the competition concludes.
I asked my representative not to talk about anything until the World Cup is over. Javier Aguirre
Al-Ittihad turned their attention to the Mexican manager after Jürgen Klopp ruled out taking the position left vacant at the end of the season. The club is looking to revamp its project after finishing in seventh place, far from the league title, and is also monitoring Antonio Conte.
Should the deal go through, it would not be Aguirre's first time in the Middle East. In 2015, he managed Al-Wahda in the UAE, where he secured both the League Cup and the President's Cup.