March 14 (Reuters) – Mexican-born right winger Alex Zendejas has decided to represent the United States on the international stage, US Soccer reported on Tuesday.
The 25-year-old, who plays for Liga MX club América, was eligible to represent both countries as he was born in Ciudad Juárez but moved to El Paso, Texas as a child.
“I’m very proud to be Mexican-American. The values of both cultures have made me the person I am today. I’ve had the privilege of living in two countries,” Zendejas said on social media. .
“Making a decision about your international career is very difficult, and I believe in following your heart. Mine tells me that my future is to represent the United States,” he added.
Zendejas, torn between the two nations, had played with the United States in lower categories, but had appeared with Mexico in friendlies against Ecuador (2-3) in 2021 and Guatemala (0-0) in 2022.
However, as the player did not approve the unique affiliation change, FIFA sanctioned Mexico for using him in matches that lost 3-0, in addition to imposing a 10,000 fine. Swiss francs ($10,937). ).
New Mexico coach Diego Cocca tried to win the winger back, but Zendejas turned down the offer after committing to the USA team program.
Team USA will complete the 2022-23 CONCACAF Nations League group stage with games against Grenada on March 24 and El Salvador on March 27.
(1 dollar = 0.9143 Swiss francs)
(Reporting by Angelica Medina in Mexico City. Editing in Spanish by Javier Leira)