In a major shakeup for Costa Rican football, the federation has announced the hiring of former Mexico manager Miguel Herrera as the new head coach of the men’s national team. The 56-year-old returns to the international stage for the first time since his tenure with El Tri from 2013-2015.
Herrera emerged as the top choice after an extensive selection process that saw several high-profile Mexican candidates make the final shortlist, including former Liga MX boss Ignacio Ambriz. The Costa Rican Football Federation (FCRF) confirmed the decision was made in conjunction with new sports director Ignacio Hierro.
A Fiery Personality Takes Charge
Known for his passionate touchline antics and fiery personality, Herrera brings a wealth of experience to the Ticos dugout. As Mexico coach, he successfully navigated the team to the 2014 World Cup and clinched the 2015 Concacaf Gold Cup title before a controversial airport altercation with a journalist led to his dismissal.
We are excited to welcome Miguel Herrera as our new national team manager. His track record speaks for itself and we believe he is the right man to lead us forward in this new cycle.
Rodolfo Villalobos, FCRF President
At club level, Herrera boasts an extensive résumé spanning over two decades in Mexican football. His most successful stint came with Club América, where he delivered league titles in the 2013 Clausura and 2018 Apertura tournaments. However, his recent spell with Club Tijuana ended in disappointment as he failed to guide the team to the playoffs in his last three seasons.
Baptism of Fire Against USMNT
Herrera faces a daunting start to his Costa Rica reign with a friendly clash against the United States men’s national team on July 22. The match offers an early opportunity to make a statement against the Concacaf rivals and gauge the squad’s progress under his leadership.
- Herrera’s first match: Costa Rica vs USA on July 22
- Chance to set the tone: Early test against regional powerhouse
- Squad assessment: Opportunity to evaluate player pool in competitive setting
The USMNT has held the upper hand in recent meetings, going unbeaten in the last four encounters dating back to 2019. For Herrera, the friendly serves as a baptism of fire as he looks to implement his tactical philosophy and assess the talent at his disposal ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualification campaign.
Ushering in a New Era for Costa Rica
Herrera’s appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter for Costa Rican football as they aim to rebound from a disappointing group stage exit at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. With an aging core of veterans nearing the end of their international careers, the onus falls on Herrera to oversee a smooth transition and identify the next generation of talent.
There is incredible potential in Costa Rican football. My goal is to build a competitive, dynamic team that can challenge the best in Concacaf and make the country proud.
Miguel Herrera, Costa Rica Head Coach
As Herrera settles into his new role, all eyes will be on his player selection, tactical approach, and ability to galvanize a squad in transition. With the USMNT friendly fast approaching, the Mexican tactician has little time to waste as he looks to make an immediate impact and set Costa Rica on the path to success in the coming years.
At club level, Herrera boasts an extensive résumé spanning over two decades in Mexican football. His most successful stint came with Club América, where he delivered league titles in the 2013 Clausura and 2018 Apertura tournaments. However, his recent spell with Club Tijuana ended in disappointment as he failed to guide the team to the playoffs in his last three seasons.
Baptism of Fire Against USMNT
Herrera faces a daunting start to his Costa Rica reign with a friendly clash against the United States men’s national team on July 22. The match offers an early opportunity to make a statement against the Concacaf rivals and gauge the squad’s progress under his leadership.
- Herrera’s first match: Costa Rica vs USA on July 22
- Chance to set the tone: Early test against regional powerhouse
- Squad assessment: Opportunity to evaluate player pool in competitive setting
The USMNT has held the upper hand in recent meetings, going unbeaten in the last four encounters dating back to 2019. For Herrera, the friendly serves as a baptism of fire as he looks to implement his tactical philosophy and assess the talent at his disposal ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualification campaign.
Ushering in a New Era for Costa Rica
Herrera’s appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter for Costa Rican football as they aim to rebound from a disappointing group stage exit at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. With an aging core of veterans nearing the end of their international careers, the onus falls on Herrera to oversee a smooth transition and identify the next generation of talent.
There is incredible potential in Costa Rican football. My goal is to build a competitive, dynamic team that can challenge the best in Concacaf and make the country proud.
Miguel Herrera, Costa Rica Head Coach
As Herrera settles into his new role, all eyes will be on his player selection, tactical approach, and ability to galvanize a squad in transition. With the USMNT friendly fast approaching, the Mexican tactician has little time to waste as he looks to make an immediate impact and set Costa Rica on the path to success in the coming years.
