Former Real Madrid starlet gets green light to play for Mexico
FIFA has Álvaro Fidalgo’s change of allegiance, with the Spanish-born player now eligible to represent the Mexican national team.
Álvaro Fidalgo’s path to the Mexican national team no longer faces any administrative hurdles. FIFA has officially approved his change of federation, making the Spanish-born midfielder eligible for selection as Mexico begins its run‑up to the 2026 World Cup.
Fidalgo gets approval despite residency questions
The authorization came after FIFA reviewed the documentation submitted by the Mexican Soccer Federation (FMF), which had spent the early part of the week clearing up any doubts regarding Fidalgo’s status. With the green light from world soccer’s governing body, the 28-year-old now meets every regulatory requirement to represent El Tri.
The central question in the process revolved around the period of continuous residency in Mexico. Under FIFA regulations, a player who has not appeared in an official senior national team match may request a one‑time switch of federation if they can prove at least five consecutive years living in the country they wish to represent.
In Fidalgo’s case, the situation raised questions because of his recent transfer from Liga MX’s Club América to LaLiga team Real Betis - a move finalized right as he was completing the five‑year residency threshold in Mexico. The FMF submitted the necessary documents to confirm the midfielder had indeed met the requirement, and after review, FIFA granted approval.
When could Fidalgo make his Mexico debut?
Fidalgo’s eligibility opens an important window for Mexico head coach Javier Aguirre, who is currently evaluating players ahead of the World Cup - a tournament the Mexicans will co‑host with the United States and Canada.
Initially, the Real Madrid youth product’s name surfaced as a candidate for the February showcase match featuring Liga MX players, but his transfer to Spain ruled out that possibility. Now, his next opportunity to make an impression will come during the March FIFA window, when Mexico faces Portugal at Estadio Banorte and then Belgium in Chicago.
Those two fixtures represent one of the final chances for Fidalgo to compete for a place on the roster heading toward the World Cup. From here, the decision rests with Aguirre and his coaching staff.
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