Mexico's 2026 World Cup Squad Features Five Foreign-Born Players

Mexico's national soccer team, known as 'El Tri,' is set to include five players not born in Mexico among its 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup. Coach Javier Aguirre has opted to integrate players with dual nationality, emphasizing their strong connection to Mexico and their desire to represent the country.

Aguirre stated that this approach reflects a growing trend of dual-nationality players contributing to various Mexican national teams, from youth levels to the women's squad. "There are a lot of players with dual nationality, who in the future will continue to feed the Mexican national teams, all categories, even the women's," Aguirre said before announcing his final roster. The selected players include two born in the United States, one in Colombia, one in Spain, and one in Argentina.

The inclusion of these players has sparked debate within Mexican soccer circles. Some former national team players have openly criticized Aguirre's decision, arguing that the squad should prioritize players born and raised in Mexico. Despite the criticism, Aguirre defended his choices, asserting that he selected the best available talent from a pool of 60 to 70 players.

The five players selected are Julián Quiñones, Brian Gutiérrez, Álvaro Fidalgo, Santiago Giménez, and Obed Vargas. Notably, only Vargas has not played in Mexico's Liga MX, while the others have gained popularity and affection from fans of major Mexican clubs. Another player not born in Mexico, Germán Berterame, was previously overlooked by Aguirre for the latest squad selection.