In international football, the best teams are built on strong centre-backs — leaders who can withstand pressure and organise those around them. For Mexico, Víctor Guzmán is increasingly viewed as one of those players. At just 23, the Monterrey defender has established himself in Liga MX as a dominant presence, and his steady rise suggests he could be a pillar of El Tri’s back line by the time the 2026 World Cup kicks off.
Monterrey’s Rising Star
Born in Tijuana, Guzmán began his career in the youth academy of Club Tijuana before moving to Monterrey, one of Mexico’s richest and most ambitious clubs. At Rayados, he matured quickly, benefiting from playing alongside seasoned internationals and in high-stakes matches.
By his early twenties, Guzmán had broken into Monterrey’s starting XI, where his consistency and poise stood out in both domestic and CONCACAF competitions. His ability to deliver in pressure-filled moments — against rivals like Tigres or in continental fixtures — accelerated his reputation as one of Liga MX’s most valuable defenders.
Style of Play
Guzmán is a central defender who combines physical strength with intelligence. Standing tall and strong in duels, he excels in aerial battles, making him a dominant figure in both defensive and attacking set-piece situations. His tackling is clean and precise, with a knack for timing challenges to avoid unnecessary fouls.
With the ball, he is calm and capable. Guzmán is comfortable playing out from the back, whether recycling possession with short passes or launching long diagonals to initiate attacks. This composure under pressure has made him a natural fit for Monterrey’s possession-oriented style.
Defensively, his greatest strength is anticipation. Guzmán reads the game well, stepping into passing lanes and positioning himself effectively to cut off danger before it escalates.
Contributions to El Tri
Guzmán has already earned call-ups to Mexico’s senior squad, though his appearances remain limited. His inclusion reflects the national team’s recognition of his potential and readiness to integrate him into the defensive rotation.
For El Tri, Guzmán represents the future at centre-back. With Héctor Moreno retired and other veterans aging, Mexico needs young defenders who can step in with authority. Guzmán’s performances for Monterrey suggest he is capable of filling that void, whether as a starter or reliable squad member.
Mentality and Character
What defines Guzmán is confidence without arrogance. Despite his youth, he plays with assurance, rarely rattled by pressure or high-profile opponents. Coaches describe him as disciplined and eager to learn — qualities that suggest he will continue improving as he gains experience.
His character is also shaped by Monterrey’s competitive environment. Playing for one of Mexico’s biggest clubs means facing constant scrutiny, where mistakes are magnified. Guzmán has thrived under that pressure, showing resilience and a strong mentality.
Looking Ahead to 2026
By the 2026 World Cup, Guzmán will be 25 — an ideal age for a centre-back, combining youthful energy with growing maturity. If he continues his trajectory, he could arrive at the tournament as one of Mexico’s starting defenders, tasked with anchoring the back line in front of home fans.
His partnership with fellow young defenders like Johan Vásquez and César Montes could form the backbone of Mexico’s defence for the next decade. In a tournament where defensive solidity often determines success, Guzmán’s presence could be crucial.
Conclusion
Víctor Guzmán represents the next wave of Mexican defenders: strong, intelligent, and composed under pressure. His rise at Monterrey has marked him as one of Liga MX’s most valuable assets, and his integration into El Tri appears inevitable.
As Mexico prepares for 2026, Guzmán is more than just a prospect — he is a player ready to step into a leading role. For fans dreaming of a historic run on home soil, his emergence is a reason to believe that the defence will be in safe hands.