JAVIER AGUIRRE - MEXICO NATIONAL TEAM - WORLD CUP MANAGER

I was fortunate enough to speak with Javier Aguirre last week. He was Mexico's Head Coach during the 2010 World Cup! Javier is hugely experienced and respected globally as a both a player and now as a manager.

Aguirre played for a number of clubs in Mexico, including Club América, where he won several championships, including a final against CD Guadalajara, in which he scored a goal. He also played outside Mexico with CA Osasuna in Spain and the Los Angeles Aztecs in the United States.

Teams managed
1995–1996 Atlante
1998–2001 Pachuca
2001–2002 Mexico
2002–2006 Osasuna
2006–2009 Atlético Madrid
2009–2010 Mexico National Team - World Cup 2010

This was a rare opportunity. Here are the questions I asked him:

.One of my favourite players is Rafael Marquez. What would you say are his main strengths?

His experience and pace

.Which current players do you admire?

Xabi Alonso

.Who is best team mate you have played with?

Hugo Sanchez (Former Mexican International striker who played for Real Madrid)

.You played for the LA Aztecs. What advice would you give to kids playing football in Southern California?

Never forget about school work. Soccer is fine but you never know what will happen - There is a great deal of uncertainty.

.Favourite stadium?

Estadio Azteca (Mexico City)

.Who has been your biggest influence/inspiration?

Rinus Michels (Dutch coach who won the European Cup with Ajax, and Spanish League title with Barcelona)

.Amongst your achievements you have played in Europe, coached Athletico Madrid (qualifying for the Champions League), played for and managed Mexico. Which gives you greatest satisfaction?

All of them. I was especially proud to manage my National Team.

Thank you Javier.

James.

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