Alejandro Zendejas is heading north…
The 24-year-old Mexican professional footballer has beene called up for the first time by the senior United States national team, according to Futbol Americas hosts Herculez Gomez and Sebastian Salazar.
Zendejas, a dual citizen who plays for Liga MX‘s Club America is joioned by Brandon Vazquez of FC Cincinnati on the roster.
The sources said that the two soccer up-and-comers are on the list for this month’s camp in Los Angeles ahead of friendlies with Serbia at Banc of California Stadium on January 25, and Colombia at Carson’s Dignity Health Sports Park on Jan. 28.
The full U.S. squad is expected to be released on Wednesday, with World Cup assistant Anthony Hudson set to oversee the side for the camp and friendlies.
Vazquez, a 2022 MLS All-Star said last year that he’s open to Mexico or the United States, but hinted at this month’s MLS Media Day that a decision had already been made.
“It’s a big milestone for me,” Vazquez told MLSsoccer.com about earning a chance with the USMNT’s January camp.
“I mean, growing up with the [U.S.] national team, and then seeing other teammates get the opportunity and thriving with the men’s national team, and not being there, sometimes I compare, you know? So I always wish I’m there, too. I’ve been wanting to get there for a long time.”
Vazquez, who was a part of the U.S. youth national team setup, also noted that there’s “still no conversation” with the Mexican federation and that “nobody’s called.”
Zendejas has represented both Mexico and the United States at youth level and made two senior appearances for El Tri in late 2021 and early 2022. Last August, ESPN Mexico reported that FIFA were investigating the eligibility of the player who had allegedly yet to file a one-time switch with Mexico.
In September, a representative from U.S. Soccer confirmed to ESPN that they were following Zendejas’ development, after his involvement in the youth setup.
While Vazquez is in MLS’ preseason, a possible hurdle for Zendejas is two upcoming home games for America in Mexico City against Puebla on Jan. 21 and Mazatlan on Jan. 28. Due to the USMNT camp and friendlies landing on non-FIFA dates, Club America does not have to release Zendejas.