Chicago Fire midfielder Brian Gutiérrez is now eligible to play for Mexico following the acquisition of his Mexican passport, as reported by Súper Deportivo. With roots in Illinois and parents from Mexico, the 22-year-old has emerged as one of Major League Soccer’s most promising young talents, setting his sights on a spot in Javier Aguirre’s national team.
Path to International Representation
Gutiérrez was born in Berwyn, Illinois, and grew up within the U.S. soccer framework, even earning caps for the U.S. youth national teams. He made his senior national team debut for the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) in January 2025 during a friendly match, where he gained his first two appearances against Venezuela and Costa Rica. Although these matches were not part of official tournaments, this gives the rising star the flexibility to switch allegiance and represent Mexico internationally.
Remarkable Performance in 2025
Gutiérrez had an outstanding 2025 season with the Chicago Fire, participating in 35 games and clocking in over 2,381 minutes on the field. He scored nine goals and provided six assists in 29 league games. His exceptional play showcased his creativity, precision in passing, and strategic adaptability, establishing him as one of the league’s top midfielders.
Career Statistics Highlighting Consistency
Since debuting as a teenager, Gutiérrez has made 164 appearances for the Fire. His contributions include 21 goals and 25 assists, accumulating over 10,000 minutes of professional play. His steady development positions him as a key player among the emerging pool of dual nationals considered by Mexico.
Building a Binational Talent Pool for El Tri
Gutiérrez’s choice reflects a broader trend, similar to Obed Vargas of the Seattle Sounders, who recently opted to represent Mexico. As the Mexican Football Federation expands its scouting efforts in the U.S., players like Gutiérrez symbolize a new generation of binational athletes poised to bolster El Tri’s roster for upcoming international contests.
In summary, Brian Gutiérrez’s rise within Chicago Fire and his recent eligibility for the Mexican national team mark significant developments in his career and the growing connection between U.S. soccer talents and Mexican football. With emerging stars like him, El Tri is set to enhance its competitive edge in international soccer.
