La Roja coach Mena reflects on World Cup exit and his uncertain future

Luis Mena, head coach of Chile's women's national football team, La Roja, is uncertain about his future following their failure to qualify for the 2027 World Cup. The team's defeat against Ecuador in the final match of the Nations League sealed their fate, prompting Mena to reflect on his position.

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We are subject to results; when we win, we are good, and when we lose, we are bad. I am very calm and happy to have contributed this grain of sand to the growth of women's football.

"We are subject to results; when we win, we are good, and when we lose, we are bad," Mena stated to the media after the match. He expressed contentment with his contribution to the growth of women's football in Chile, noting that the team has better conditions now than when he took over. "There are better conditions since I arrived at the national team, and during the week, we will see what resolutions are made," he added, indicating that discussions about his future are expected.

Mena also conveyed his gratitude to his technical staff and the limited personnel working with the team. He stressed the importance of continuous improvement in various aspects of the game and highlighted the significance of youth tournaments. "Each tournament is very important, and we take them with seriousness, especially in the youth categories. The U-16 will be the base for the World Cup in Morocco (this year)," he explained.

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There are better conditions since I arrived at the national team, and during the week, we will see what resolutions are made. Very grateful for my coaching staff and the people who work, who are not many.

The coach pointed to the creation of younger categories, such as the U-14 and U-15 teams, as crucial steps for the development of women's football. He expressed a desire for more opportunities, including winning the Copa Libertadores and having more U-17 championships, to foster the continued growth he envisions for the sport in Chile. The team's inability to reach the World Cup marks a significant setback for these aspirations.

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We have created youth categories like the U-14 or U-15. Hopefully, we could bring the Copa Libertadores, that we have more U-17 championships that allow us to continue in this growth that we want for women's football.