‘If he’s eligible and playing well, why not think about him?’ - Javier Aguirre opens the door for Club América’s Álvaro Fidalgo to join Mexico

Aguirre addressed Fidalgo’s situation, confirming that the player could become eligible in March 2026.

“March 2026 - that’s when I was told he’d be eligible,” Aguirre said to TUDN. “I haven’t spoken to him yet because a lot can happen between now and then. We’re monitoring his development. 

"He was in Spain’s Segunda B [with Real Madrid] before coming here, brought by [former Club America manager Santiago] Solari - the only one who knew him - and it turned out to be a great decision. He arrived from a third-tier team and became a star here. It was a good gamble that gave us a top player."

Fidalgo had previously denied interest in playing for El Tri in recent interviews. 

"To be honest, if you ask me today if I’ve thought about it or planned for it, the answer is no," he told ESPN in May. "I’m focused on the present, on what’s happening now, and for many reasons, I don’t see myself on the Mexican national team.”

Yet, based on Aguirre's recent comments, there is a possibility that the stance has changed. 

“He’s been here for many years, became a Mexican citizen, and has a strong desire to play for the national team… If he’s eligible and playing well, why not think about him? But March 2026 is the key date,” said Aguirre.

When asked directly about Fidalgo's previous comments, Aguirre made it clear he won’t pressure anyone to join the national team. 

“I wouldn’t do that. I find it hard to ask someone, ‘What do you think about playing here or there?’ One of the things I said when I came back was that we need to restore pride in the national team," he said. "It’s not an obligation or punishment - you come because you want to. If you don’t, I’ll never call you again.” 

Fidalgo’s name is set to become a major talking point among Mexican fans, media, and federation officials as the 2026 World Cup approaches. The Spanish midfielder has established himself as one of Liga MX’s most talented players in recent years, and speculation is growing about the possibility of him representing Mexico at the next World Cup.

Since joining America in 2020, Fidalgo has made 36 goal contributions in six seasons in central midfield. He has also won three league titles and was named to Liga MX's Best XI in 2021. 

Fidalgo, who joined América in 2021, played three matches with Spain’s U-17 side but has never been called up to the senior team, making it possible for him to represent Mexico if he chooses to do so.