Rafael Marquez Backs Gilberto Mora for European Move Following Senior National Team Debut

Mexico coach Rafael Marquez praised Gilberto Mora's mindset and ability to fit in with any team ahead of a potential October 14 transfer announcement.

Mexico manager Rafael Marquez is winless in his first four matches following a 2-0 loss to Chile on Tuesday. During the current international window, 17-year-old Gilberto Mora scored his first senior national team goal in a 1-1 draw against Colombia before being sidelined by muscle injuries. Without their No. 10, Mexico failed to win their subsequent three fixtures, leaving Marquez with a record of two draws and two losses since taking charge.

ESPN reports an announcement is expected on Oct. 14 regarding Mora’s move to a major European club. The Club Tijuana player turns 18 on that date, meeting the age requirement for an international transfer. The deal could potentially break the current Liga MX transfer record. Marquez stated on Tuesday that the teenager possesses the talent and mindset to succeed abroad and could fit in with any team.

Marquez noted that his primary objective during this window was to evaluate the squad by giving minutes to every player. Despite the defeat to Chile, the coach emphasized that the rotation allowed him to see which players fit into his future plans. Mexico also suffered a recent defeat to the USMNT, which Marquez attributed to critical errors.