Mexico’s national football team head coach Javier Aguirre has expressed strong frustration over a proposed change to the kick-off time for an upcoming match, criticizing FIFA for implementing the adjustment without prior consultation.

In an interview on Radio Formula with Spanish-Mexican journalist Joaquin Lopez Doriga, Aguirre described the change as a significant disruption to the team’s preparation. He said the modification “changes everything” and likened it to “a kick in the gut,” noting that it would require adjusting nearly six hours of scheduled training activities. Aguirre emphasized the impact on various aspects of the players’ routine, including nutrition, rest, and physiotherapy, calling these factors critical despite seeming minor.

While Aguirre acknowledged that Mexico would comply with FIFA’s decision, he made it clear that neither he nor his players welcomed the alteration. He voiced his disappointment over the absence of any consultation prior to the announcement, saying, “I can understand reasons and arguments but they didn’t consult me and yes, I’m quite angry.”

The coach indicated the team had been aware of the match schedule and venue since a previous discussion in Ecuador, though the opponent had not been finalized then. However, he stressed that, despite this knowledge, the sudden timing change had complicated preparations and left the team feeling disadvantaged.

Aguirre’s remarks highlight ongoing tensions between national team staff and governing bodies when logistical changes occur with limited notice. He concluded by reaffirming Mexico’s commitment to abide by FIFA’s rulings, despite his clear displeasure with the process.