The United States men’s national team got a big win on Tuesday despite not playing a game. Talented Club America winger Alejandro Zendejas officially committed to representing the U.S. on the international stage, choosing USMNT over Mexico’s national team.
Zendejas is a dual national as he was born in Mexico but grew up in the U.S., where he also started his professional career. This made him eligible to play for either of the two countries.
USMNT announced Zendejas’ decision on Tuesday, while the player himself confirmed the choice on social media.
“I am very proud of being Mexican-American. Values from both cultures have made me the person I am today,” Zendejas said in a statement. “Making a decision on your international career is very difficult, and I believe in following your heart. Mine tells me that my future lies representing the USA.”
Alejandro Zendejas played for the U.S. on U15 and U17 levels before switching to play for Mexico’s youth sides. He also made two appearances for Mexico’s senior team in 2021 and 2022 but was later deemed ineligible as he didn’t make a formal request to FIFA to change his national team allegiance.
Zendejas then accepted the call-up from USMNT’s head coach Gregg Berhalter for a friendly against Serbia in early January and ended up making his USMNT debut. Still, the 25-year-old reiterated at the time that he is still considering his options about his international future.
Zendejas played 25 games in all competitions for Club America this season, scoring seven goals and adding five assists.
