Julián Quiñones returns to Mexico squad as Rafa Márquez seeks new attacking options
Rafael Márquez is reshaping the Mexico attack for the CONCACAF Nations League quarter-finals against Jamaica, with Julián Quiñones set to return and Armando León under consideration.
The Mexico national team is beginning preparations for the 2026 CONCACAF Nations League quarter-finals against Jamaica. With the team struggling for goals—having netted only twice in their last four matches—head coach Rafael Márquez is looking to diversify his attacking options.
A major development is the return of Julián Quiñones. The forward, currently excelling at Saudi Arabian club Al-Qadisiya, has tallied 10 goals and nine assists in 16 appearances this season. The Mexican Football Federation has reportedly submitted a formal request to the Saudi club for the striker's release for the upcoming international window.
The coaching staff is also forced to adapt to the absence of Raúl Jiménez, who is sidelined for the remainder of the year following knee surgery. Among the potential reinforcements being analyzed is 26-year-old forward Armando León. Currently playing for Croatian side Osijek, León has impressed with five goals in 12 league matches this season, helping his team contend for the top spots in the standings.
The federation has already sent a provisional notification to the Croatian club regarding León's potential involvement. Alongside Quiñones and León, other candidates such as Santiago Giménez, Germán Berterame, and Armando González remain in the mix as Márquez looks to solidify his attacking rotation ahead of the high-stakes clash with Jamaica.