Mexico’s right back position remains unsettled ahead of the 2026 World Cup, but there’s a new glimmer of hope. El Tri striker Santiago Giménez shared an encouraging update on Copenhagen defender Rodrigo Huescas, who’s recovering from a torn ACL. The two came up together in Cruz Azul’s youth academy, where they formed a close bond.
Getty Images SportReasons for optimism
Huescas' injury has ruled him out for the remainder of the season with FC Copenhagen, but despite the setback, the young Mexican defender is dreaming big. During a TikTok live session, Giménez revealed that he recently spoke with Huescas and relayed that the right back remains optimistic about making it to the 2026 World Cup.
“I talked to Rodrigo the other day – he’s hopeful, and we all have hopes that he’ll make it to the World Cup,” said the AC Milan striker.
AdvertisementAFPHow the injury happened…
The injury occurred during a UEFA Champions League group stage match against Qarabağ, where Huescas exited the field in the 13th minute after a challenge on the right flank, visibly distraught as the severity became evident.
Getty Images SportThe recovery process
Despite the grim diagnosis, recent updates have provided encouraging signs. On social media, Huescas shared footage of himself training on a stationary bike, sporting only light wrapping on the injured knee. The video sparked optimism among Copenhagen fans – and especially among Mexican supporters who see him as a potential solution for El Tri’s right-back dilemma.
Getty Images SportWho is on the list?
The race to fill that position remains open. While regular names like Julián Araujo, Kevin Álvarez, and Jorge Sánchez remain in contention, new options such as dual-national Richard Ledezma have begun to surface – even though he has yet to be called up by Javier Aguirre.