Football BaBe
Alejandro Zendejas Reflects on USMNT Opportunities and Club America Success
In the dynamic world of international soccer, players like Alejandro Zendejas often find themselves at the crossroads of club loyalty and national team aspirations. As a standout performer for Club America and a USMNT hopeful, Zendejas recently shared insights into his limited involvement with the U.S. squad under coach Mauricio Pochettino, while expressing contentment with his current role in Liga MX and hinting at potential future moves to MLS.
- Zendejas says he respects Pochettino’s decisions
- Winger stressed he’s happy at Club America
- Was a bright spot for Liga MX at Skills Challenge
Navigating Limited USMNT Invitations from Mauricio Pochettino
From AUSTIN, Texas – Over the last couple of years, American talent Alejandro Zendejas has emerged as a key figure for Club America, securing an impressive six titles with the team, among them three Liga MX championships. Even with the USMNT facing shortages in wing positions, the 27-year-old has only been summoned once by head coach Mauricio Pochettino.
That single invitation occurred during Pochettino’s initial training session with the squad.
Zendejas handled questions about his sparse selections with grace, noting that he hasn’t been contacted by the coach and emphasizing that such choices are beyond his influence.
“It’s ultimately up to him to decide, and I fully support whatever he chooses. My focus remains on delivering strong performances during matches, with the hope that an opportunity will arise eventually,” he commented after Liga MX’s defeat in the MLS All-Star Skills Challenge.
After transferring to Club America in 2022 for a fee of $3 million, Zendejas has tallied 29 goals along with 19 assists across 101 appearances in the league. Recent updates show that in the 2024 season alone, he’s contributed to over 15 goal involvements, underscoring his consistent impact.
Emotional Return to Texas Roots During All-Star Events
The All-Star activities on Tuesday at Q2 Stadium felt like a nostalgic reunion for Zendejas, who was raised in El Paso and honed his skills in FC Dallas‘ development program. As a standout participant for Liga MX in the Skills Challenge, he repeatedly expressed his excitement about returning to his home state.
Despite the heartfelt connections to his past, the player with dual citizenship made it clear that leaving Club America isn’t something he’s considering at the moment.
“Of course, I feel a pull towards home, and competing in MLS remains an ambition of mine, yet I’m truly satisfied with my situation here,” Zendejas explained. “The support from the club is fantastic, the camaraderie with teammates and coaches is strong, and the overall environment is positive. So, I’m thriving right now, and perhaps MLS could be in my future someday. Absolutely.”
Club America’s Expanding Influence in the United States
Zendejas also highlighted the increasing popularity of Club America among U.S. fans, which he attributes to the team’s frequent exhibition games across the border. A notable contingent of Las Aguilas supporters filled Q2 Stadium that evening.
“We’re accustomed to this because Club America often travels to the U.S. for friendly matches,” he noted. “It’s rewarding to connect with our dedicated followers here when we play on American turf. Yeah, it’s uplifting. I do long for the U.S. sometimes, but I’m content in my current setup.”
Upcoming Matches and Zendejas’ Immediate Focus
Zendejas is gearing up for the MLS All-Star match on Wednesday, after which he’ll dive back into Liga MX duties. Club America is scheduled to face Necaxa, owned by Eva Longoria, this Saturday. With recent expansions in cross-league events, such as the Leagues Cup, players like Zendejas are bridging the gap between MLS and Liga MX more than ever.
