Gilberto Mora hints Mexico could surpass Messi’s Argentina at the 2026 World Cup

The young Mexican star did not hold back. In a recent interview, Gilberto Mora made it clear he believes El Tri can go all the way at the 2026 World Cup.

For him, Mexico has the talent, the stage and the moment to compete with anyone, even traditional giants like Argentina. What is missing, he says, is belief.

Why Gilberto Mora says Mexico should aim higher

Speaking with ESPN México, the 17 year old forward from Xolos de Tijuana pointed directly to the home factor as a game changer for 2026.

“Mexico is a favorite to win the World Cup, we are at home. I think we just need to believe it, that is all. We have everything to be champions,” Mora said.

His words arrived in the middle of doubts around the national team project and quickly sparked debate.

In a tournament that Mexico will co host, Mora is pushing a different narrative: stop fearing the stage and start acting like a contender.

From Hugo Sánchez to a new generation mindset

Mora also referenced Hugo Sánchez as the example Mexico needs to follow in terms of mentality. For him, the gap is not only tactical or physical, it is psychological.

“He is one of the biggest figures in Mexican football. What is missing is that belief, the same one he had in his career. That is why he achieved what he did in Europe,” he added.

That line connects with a growing idea around this new wave of Mexican talent.

Players like Mora are talking less about limits and more about standards. Confidence and mentality, not just technique, as the difference between participating and truly competing.

Ready for El Tri and ready for 2026

After his standout performances at the U 20 World Cup, Mora says he feels prepared to fight for a place in the senior national team.

“I feel ready, capable. I know my qualities and I think I can contribute a lot. I see myself at the 2026 World Cup, it is a dream for me to be there and represent my country in the best way,” he told ESPN.

His message goes beyond personal ambition. It reads like a quiet challenge to a fan base and a system that often doubts itself before the ball even rolls.

If Mexico wants to break the old narratives in 2026, it might start with something as simple, and as powerful, as thinking the way Gilberto Mora already does.