Germán Berterame opens up about the pressure facing Mexico’s strikers, his reaction to missing the final squad list, and his commitment to Rafa Márquez’s long-term process.
The sting of seeing the final national team list and realizing your name is missing is a moment that hits hard. For Germán Berterame. it was a moment that touched his heart. yet he remains anchored in a positive outlook. reflecting on the experience of supporting the squad as they played in front of an energetic home crowd. He remains focused on the horizon. determined to put in the work required to earn a spot in the next call-up.
Berterame is currently navigating the early stages of the program under Rafa Márquez. While the time spent under the new leadership has been limited, he sees clear positives in the work being implemented. He acknowledges that this is a long-term journey. one that requires patience and a collective belief that the results will follow. The recent performance was a difficult blow—a match where the team knew they were capable of more—but he emphasizes the necessity of turning the page quickly. For Berterame. the personal process involves processing the frustration of a loss on the day it happens. then shifting focus to the next challenge the following morning.
This transition comes amid scrutiny regarding the scoring drought of Mexico’s strikers. Berterame, alongside teammates Armando ‘Hormiga’ González and Santiago Giménez, is feeling the weight of expectation. He identifies the culprit as anxiety—the internal pressure that comes with the desire to score. It is a mental challenge to remain calm while fulfilling the tactical demands of the coach. which include defensive duties. pressing. and doing the ‘dirty work’ on the pitch.
There is a balance to be struck between the individual ego of a striker and the health of the collective. If the goals don’t come from the primary forwards. Berterame insists. the priority shifts to ensuring teammates find the back of the net. He maintains that when things calm down and the team continues to execute the requested tactical plan. the goals will arrive. For now, the path forward is clear: work, improve, and stay ready for the next opportunity.
Germán Berterame Rafa Márquez Selección Mexicana Santiago Giménez Armando González Mexico national team