Julian Araujo: USMNT starlet switches national team allegiances

Araujo represented the United States in his youth and made his senior debut in 2020, but wasn't cap-tied.

As a dual national with Mexican family ties, Araujo was eligible within FIFA's rules to switch national teams and the

player revealed that he wants to play for El Tri because "

my heart is with Mexico

."

"The best part of being Mexican American is that I carry two flags. It is one of the things about myself that brings me great pride.

"I'm proud to be a Mexican American and being raised in a Mexican American household is a privilege for which I am forever grateful.

"Growing up watching the Mexican national team in the World Cup was a unifying moment for my family. Watching them inspired me to pursue a dream of playing professional soccer.

"My heart is with Mexico. I'm grateful for every opportunity that U.S. soccer provided me to help me grow as a soccer player and now I am excited to continue my international career with Mexico.

"Coming from a family of farmworkers, I was instilled with the values of hard work, dedication and resilience,

"Thanks to the sacrifices that my family and I have put in on and off the pitch, I have the confidence to make this decision today.

"I hope to contribute to this sport for years to come and inspire the next generation of athletes on both sides of the border. Si se puede."

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