Javier Aguirre, Mexico's head coach, has announced his squad for the upcoming friendlies against Panama and Bolivia, with a notable inclusion of three players who previously represented the United States. Richard Ledezma, Brian Gutiérrez, and Obed Vargas headline the roster, marking a potential shift in allegiance for these young talents.
The friendlies, scheduled for January 22 against Panama in Panama City and January 25 against Bolivia in Santa Cruz, fall outside the FIFA window, meaning Aguirre had to select a Liga MX-only roster, save for Vargas who plays for the Seattle Sounders. This presented an opportunity to evaluate domestic-based players and assess the team's depth and chemistry in preparation for the 2026 World Cup.
Ledezma and Gutiérrez, both currently playing for Chivas, are the most surprising inclusions, having previously been capped by the U.S. Men's National Team. According to ESPN, both players have expressed their desire to represent Mexico, but their eligibility hinges on FIFA's approval of a one-time change of association. As of now, the required documentation is still pending.
Ledezma featured in a senior-team friendly for the U.S. in 2020 and also competed in a U-20 World Cup. FIFA rules permit him to request a switch since more than three years have passed since his appearance and he never played in an official "A" competition. Gutiérrez's situation is slightly different, having played two friendlies for the U.S., with the most recent being on January 23, 2025, before he turned 21. FIFA regulations allow him to request a change of association without waiting the three-year period required in Ledezma's case.
The inclusion of these players underscores the ongoing competition between the U.S. and Mexico for dual-national players. Aguirre is using these friendlies to test players in challenging environments, requesting the games be played on the road. The team will also face Iceland in Querétaro on February 25 as part of their ongoing preparations.
The roster is primarily composed of Liga MX players, with Chivas leading the call-ups. However, with the addition of promising young talents like Gilberto Mora, Iker Fimbres and Vargas, Aguirre aims to solidify the squad and end Mexico's six-game winless streak. The core of Mexico's recent rosters remains intact, offering these young players an opportunity to impress and secure a spot in the final 2026 World Cup roster. Alexis Vega from Toluca was excluded due to a knee injury.
