Mexico is close to ‘signing’ two USMNT stars: What needs to happen now to seal the deal
The Mexican Soccer Federation is on the brink of securing the services of two Chivas players who have previously represented the U.S.
Javier Aguirre is approaching the final stretch of preparations for the World Cup. With only a few months left before the world’s premier national‑team tournament kicks off, the manager of the Mexican national team needs to maximize every moment with his squad. That’s why the federation arranged friendly matches outside the official FIFA windows - to create extra training time. For these January games, Aguirre has leaned heavily on a Chivas‑based core that includes two Mexican‑American players: Brian Gutiérrez and Richard Ledezma.
The issue, however, is that both players previously logged minutes with the United States national teams. As a result, they must formally request a one‑time change of association through FIFA before they can suit up against Panama and Bolivia this month. Yet as reported by Claro Sports, the required documentation has still not arrived, meaning neither player is currently eligible to represent El Tri.
Chivas pair eager to switch allegiance
Both players have made it clear they want to play for Mexico. But for that to happen, the Mexican Soccer Federation (FMF) needs FIFA’s approval confirming they are eligible selections for Aguirre. These January matches - set to be played in South America - are key opportunities for the Mexican coach to evaluate additional players ahead of the World Cup.
Both Chivas players have history with U.S. Soccer. Ledezma competed in a U‑20 World Cup, which does not count as an “A”‑level competition. He later appeared in a senior‑team friendly for the United States in 2020. Under FIFA rules, Ledezma is eligible to file for a one‑time switch because more than three years have passed since that appearance and he never played in an official “A” competition.
Gutiérrez’s case is slightly different. He played two friendlies for the U.S., the most recent on January 23, 2025 - before he turned 21. That detail is crucial: FIFA regulations allow him to request a change of association without waiting the three‑year period required in Ledezma’s case. Still, despite being permitted to file immediately, Gutiérrez cannot play for Mexico until FIFA issues a formal ruling.
The Marcelo Flores precedent
There’s a recent parallel involving Canada and Mexico. Marcelo Flores has not been called up by the Mexican national team since 2024. He appeared in friendlies against Chile and Guatemala, and also played in the CONCACAF Nations League against Suriname.
Canada recently summoned him for non‑FIFA‑window friendlies as well, but he too remains ineligible. Without FIFA’s approval of a change of association, he cannot take the field for the Canucks either.
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