Mexico men’s coach Rafael Marquez praised teen phenom Gilberto Mora and his ability to “succeed” abroad, amid reports of an expected move to a big European club this winter.
Earlier on Monday, ESPN reported that there will likely be an announcement made on Oct. 14 regarding a move to a “major European club” for the Club Tijuana player, who could break a Liga MX transfer record.
On Oct. 14, Mora will turn 18, thereby making him eligible for a transfer abroad.
Earlier in the international window, the teenager scored his first goal for Mexico’s senior national team in a 1-1 draw with Colombia, but was unavailable for selection afterwards due to muscle injuries.
“I think Gilberto is very talented and has a bright future ahead of him. He just needs the right guidance. I believe he could fit in with any team,” Marquez said on Tuesday when asked about whether the 17-year-old is ready for the leap to a high-profile team.
“He has the ability and above all the mindset to succeed. So wherever he goes, I’m sure he’ll have plenty of opportunities and a great career.”
Without their No. 10, Mexico failed to win their next three games, including Tuesday’s 2-0 loss to Chile in which Marquez was speaking to media.
– USMNT’s young stars shine to give Pochettino ‘fantastic problem’
– Márquez bemoans ‘terrible mistakes’ as Mexico humbled by USMNT
– Sullivan shows he’s going to be a star as U.S. thrash Mexico
“It was clear that our performance wasn’t at its best, but you also realize that everyone got a chance, everyone got minutes. That was the plan from the start, to take a look at them, and that is the main objective. We’ve seen who might fit in and who might not,” said the new coach in his first international window in charge.
“The reality is that we obviously have to keep working, we have to keep improving.”
In his first four games in charge, Marquez is still seeking his first win. He has drawn twice and lost twice.
