Miguel Herrera, known as “El Piojo” (The Louse), is a prominent figure in Mexican football.
His passionate coaching style and impressive track record have made him one of the most recognizable managers in North America.
This article will teach you about Miguel Herrera’s net worth, salary, career earnings, contract, stats, wife, career overview, and more.
Miguel Herrera’s Biography
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Miguel Ernesto Herrera Aguirre |
| Nickname | El Piojo (The Louse) |
| Age | 56 |
| Born | March 18, 1968 |
| Place of Birth | Cuautepec, Mexico |
| Nationality | Mexican |
| Net Worth | Estimated $5 million |
| Salary | Varies by contract (previously $3 million/year at Atlético Madrid) |
| Relationship Status | Married |
| Wife | Georgina Ruiz |
| Instagram Profile | @miguelherreradt |
Early Career
He started his professional career with Atlante in 1985 and went on to play for several Mexican clubs, including Santos Laguna, Querétaro, and Toros Neza.
Known for his aggressive style as a defender, Herrera earned 14 caps for the Mexican national team.
He participated in the 1993 Copa América and was part of the squad for the 1994 FIFA World Cup, although he didn’t play in the tournament.
Professional Career
After retiring as a player in 2000, Herrera quickly transitioned into coaching.
He began his managerial career with Atlante in 2002 and has since coached several prominent Mexican clubs, including Monterrey, Veracruz, and Club América.
He guided Mexico through a crucial World Cup playoff against New Zealand and led the team in the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
However, his tenure with the national team ended controversially in 2015 following an altercation with a journalist.
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Wife
Miguel Herrera is married to Georgina Ruiz. The couple has been together for many years and has 2 daughters, Mishelle and Tamara.
Herrera often shares photos of his family on social media, showing a softer side to his otherwise fiery public persona.
Miguel Herrera’s Net Worth Details
Miguel Herrera’s net worth is estimated to be $5 million as of 2025.
Contract
Miguel Herrera is currently without a club after his contract with Tijuana ended in April 2024.
Career Earnings
| Team | Estimated Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Atlético Madrid | $3 million |
| Club América | $2.5 million |
| Mexican National Team | $2 million |
| Houston Dynamo | $1.5 |
Endorsements
- Nike (football equipment)
- Coca-Cola (beverage)
- AT&T (telecommunications)
- Banco Azteca (financial services)
Career Stats
| Opponent | Matches | Wins | Draws | Losses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atlas | 46 | 21 | 13 | 12 |
| Cruz Azul | 54 | 23 | 15 | 16 |
| Chivas | 42 | 18 | 12 | 12 |
| Tigres UANL | 38 | 16 | 11 | 11 |
| Monterrey | 40 | 17 | 10 | 13 |
FAQs
1. Who is Miguel Herrera?
Miguel Ernesto Herrera Aguirre, nicknamed “Piojo,” is a Mexican football manager and former professional player. Born on March 18, 1968, he is best known for coaching the Mexico national team (2013–2015) and winning two Liga MX titles with Club América. In 2025, he became the first Mexican to manage Costa Rica’s national team.
2. Why is Miguel Herrera called “Piojo”?
The nickname “Piojo” (Spanish for “louse”) originated during his playing career due to his tenacious and energetic style on the field. It became widely recognized as he transitioned into coaching, where his animated sideline presence further cemented the moniker.
3. What are Miguel Herrera’s major coaching achievements?
Herrera led Club América to two Liga MX titles (2013, 2018), won the 2015 CONCACAF Gold Cup with Mexico, and guided El Tri to the Round of 16 at the 2014 FIFA World Cup. He also revitalized teams like Tigres UANL and Tijuana during his club career.
4. Why was Miguel Herrera fired as Mexico’s coach?
He was dismissed in July 2015 after a physical altercation with a journalist following Mexico’s Gold Cup victory. The incident, coupled with a six-game winless streak and controversial political tweets, led to his termination.
5. Which clubs has Miguel Herrera managed?
Herrera has coached Atlante, Monterrey, Veracruz, Estudiantes Tecos, Club América (twice), Tigres UANL, Tijuana, and the Mexico and Costa Rica national teams. His club stints include multiple playoff appearances and league finals.
6. What is Miguel Herrera’s coaching style?
Known for his passion and tactical flexibility, Herrera often employs attacking formations like 4-2-3-1 or 5-3-2. He emphasizes possession-based play and has a reputation for motivating players through his charismatic leadership.
7. When did Miguel Herrera become Costa Rica’s coach?
He was appointed in January 2025, tasked with qualifying Costa Rica for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. His debut match was a friendly against the United States in July 2025.
8. What are Herrera’s goals with Costa Rica?
His primary objectives include securing qualification for the 2026 World Cup, advancing in the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup, and rebuilding the team’s competitive edge through youth development and tactical discipline.
9. Did Miguel Herrera have a professional playing career?
Yes. As a defender, he played for Atlante, Toros Neza, Santos Laguna, and Querétaro, winning the 1992–93 Liga MX title with Atlante. He earned 14 caps for Mexico and participated in the 1993 Copa América.
10. What controversies has Miguel Herrera faced?
Aside from the 2015 altercation, Herrera drew criticism for polarizing statements on social media and inconsistent results during his later tenure with Mexico. His fiery personality has often sparked debates in the media.
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