Alejandro Zendejas has emerged as one of the notable names on the United States roster for the FIFA World Cup 2026, adding another chapter to a career shaped by cross-border identity and steady progress in professional soccer. Born in Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, on February 7, 1998, and raised in El Paso, Texas after moving there with his family as an infant, Zendejas developed his game in local recreational leagues before joining the FC Dallas youth academy at age 13. He now represents the U.S. national team as a forward wearing No. 26.
Zendejas’ inclusion in the World Cup squad follows a path that reflects both talent and perseverance. He became the fifth player in history to be called up by both the United States and Mexico, before making a permanent international switch to the U.S. in March 2023. His background has long made him eligible for either national team, and his decision to commit to the Stars and Stripes marked an important turning point in his career.
At club level, Zendejas built his reputation in Liga MX. He signed with Necaxa on a free transfer on June 29, 2020, and recorded 11 goals and two assists across two seasons before moving to Club América. His time with América has been especially successful, helping the club win three straight Liga MX titles: Apertura 2023, Clausura 2024, and Apertura 2024. That run gave América the first three-peat in the short-tournament era of Mexican soccer.
Since joining the U.S. national team, Zendejas has made 13 appearances, scoring two goals and providing one assist. He played in four matches during the 2023 Concacaf Gold Cup and contributed an assist in a tournament where the United States finished second. He was also part of the squad that won the 2022-23 Concacaf Nations League, scoring in the group stage against Grenada on March 24, 2023. More recently, he earned a starting role and scored the opening goal in a 2-0 win over Japan on September 9, 2025, in Columbus, Ohio.
Zendejas has spoken about the influence of both Mexico and the United States on his life and career, describing the two cultures as different but equally meaningful to him. His story resonates beyond statistics because it reflects the broader experience of many players shaped by dual heritage and multiple footballing traditions.
As the World Cup approaches, Zendejas enters the tournament with the same ambition shared by players across the field: to win the game’s biggest prize and experience the unique joy of competing on the sport’s grandest stage. For him, the opportunity represents both personal fulfillment and a chance to contribute to a team chasing global glory.
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