Andrés Guardado knows a thing or two about making a World Cup debut as a teenager. Back in 2006, the 19-year-old with the unmistakable curly hair was a surprise starter for Mexico in a Round of 16 clash against Argentina. Though Maxi Rodríguez's stunning long-range strike ended El Tri's hopes that day, Guardado's composed 66-minute performance announced his arrival on the global stage. That breakthrough paved the way for a storied career in Spain and a record 180 appearances for Mexico before his retirement in 2024.

Now, another young star is poised to follow in his footsteps. Gilberto Mora, just 17 years old, has already captured the imagination of Mexican fans. Last year, he became the youngest player to start a continental final when he helped Mexico lift the Gold Cup. With the 2026 World Cup on home soil, expectations are sky-high for the Club Tijuana prodigy, who is expected to join a top European club when he turns 18 this October.

But Guardado is urging caution—not for Mora, but for everyone else. "More than advice for him, I'd have advice for the fans and the press," Guardado told USA TODAY Sports. "I don't think this act of putting the weight or the expectations that we'll do well on Gilberto Mora is good. The player doesn't deserve it, not because of his quality, but just because he's so young. I don't think he deserves that responsibility. There are more experienced players who can take on the responsibility and it can be counterproductive for him as well."

It's a wise reminder for a nation eager to see its next generation shine. Mora has already proven his mettle, becoming a regular for Club Tijuana and starring for Mexico's U-20 squad at the World Cup. But as Guardado knows from personal experience, the World Cup stage can be as unforgiving as it is exhilarating. For now, the best thing fans can do is let the teenager grow into his own spotlight—without the weight of a nation on his shoulders.