The Mexican National Team is poised for a historic opportunity, competing for its first title in the Concacaf Nations League against Panama. However, this important match has been overshadowed by the controversial decision to exclude one of its key players, Henry Martín, from the call-up.
Interim coach Javier Aguirre made headlines when he announced that Martín, a prominent forward for Club América, would not be part of the squad for this crucial tournament match. Following a series of discussions, Aguirre shared the rationale behind this decision, emphasizing both performance-related concerns and team dynamics.
During an interview with TUDN, Aguirre explained that Martín’s exclusion stemmed from his reaction during Mexico's quarterfinal match against Honduras. Surprisingly left out of the first leg, the forward showed his frustration, and this negative attitude weighed heavily on Aguirre's mind. "In Honduras, Henry didn’t play, and then he erupted with two goals in Toluca, but he was in a bad mood—something normal," Aguirre stated. "I told him that this is the National Team. In a club, I have to bear your bad mood throughout the year, but here, if you don’t like it, you’re out." Aguirre's blunt assessment highlights the strict demands within the national team setup, where maintaining a positive outlook is essential.
Despite not selecting Martín for this vital encounter, Aguirre did not hesitate to praise the player's abilities. He recognized Martín's growth as both a person and an athlete, lauding him for his competitiveness and leadership qualities. Aguirre highlighted Martín's capabilities by stating, "He is a player who has surprised me greatly. His leadership, his tri-championship with América—all of that has made him an excellent export-quality forward. He could play in Spain tomorrow." This kind of endorsement from the coach speaks volumes about Martín’s potential and the missed opportunity for him to contribute to the national side during the Nations League.
Competing alongside forwards like Raúl Jiménez and the younger Santiago Giménez has undoubtedly complicated matters for Martín. Aguirre interpreted this depth in talent as both a blessing and a challenge. "It’s a blessing to have six forwards instead of one and praying that the single one doesn’t get injured. It’s my job—along with my staff—to figure out the best way to integrate them and ask for patience from those who don’t start," he explained.
However, Martín's recent performance numbers have also fueled the coach's decisions. In 2025, the 32-year-old striker has scored just two goals—one in a friendly match and another in Liga MX—without a league goal since early February. This lack of recent scoring prowess likely played a part in Aguirre's painful but necessary choice to prioritize the forwards who have demonstrated better current form.
Adding to his woes, the Mexican football association reported that Martín is currently undergoing treatment for Achilles tendinitis, which has limited his participation and effectiveness on the field. By taking time to focus on treatment now, he hopes to ensure a stronger comeback, possibly setting the stage for future selections under Aguirre's leadership.
As Mexico gears up for the final, debate surrounding Martín's absence will undoubtedly persist among fans and analysts alike. While some view Aguirre’s decision as justified given the circumstances, others argue that excluding a player of Martín's caliber is a significant gamble at such a pivotal moment.
Aguirre, acknowledging the delicate balancing act he faces, reaffirmed that Martín remains a part of his long-term plans, suggesting that his current exclusion doesn’t rule out future opportunities. "I still have him in my plans as we look forward to other tournaments. The great thing is that I have multiple options with forwards in top form, and that speaks to our depth," the coach concluded.
With each passing day leading up to the final, excitement and nerve levels rise as the nation hopes for a significant breakthrough in its football history. The onus is now on Aguirre and the selected team to harness their collective talent and fulfill the aspirations of fans across Mexico while navigating the complexities of team dynamics and player morale.
