GUADALAJARA, Mexico — In a groundbreaking moment for the Mexico national team, one of its star players shared insights about his upbringing in Chicago.
“I grew up there, and it had a significant impact on me,” 22-year-old midfielder Brian Gutiérrez explained. “Playing street soccer with friends and family instilled in me that passion and drive that exists within the Latino community. That spirit is something I carry with me wherever I go.”
Gutiérrez was integral to Mexico’s 2-0 victory over South Africa in the emotional opener of the FIFA World Cup, marking a unique chapter for El Tri.
Unlike most of his teammates, who were born and raised in Mexico, Gutiérrez honed his skills playing alongside Chicago’s diverse community, including Polish and Serbian groups. Instead of being scouted by Liga MX academies, he was nurtured by the MLS club Chicago Fire.
Previously, he had represented the United States at the senior national level, leading some to categorize him as simply another American player.
However, that’s just a fraction of his story.
When he learned of his selection for Mexico’s World Cup squad, Gutiérrez knew whom to call first. “Obviously my parents,” he recounted, revealing that his mother was in tears upon hearing the news. “Without them, I wouldn’t be here.”
Growing up in a “100% Mexican” household in Chicago, influenced by his family’s Jalisco roots, Gutiérrez became bilingual and developed a love for soccer through his relatives who cherished their cultural heritage.
Beyond his family, he benefited from the rich tapestry of his community.
“I absorbed all those different personalities and nationalities,” Gutiérrez shared about his local experiences. “We all bond over the shared joy of playing football.”
He joined the Chicago Fire’s academy, quickly advancing to the senior team where he stood out. He made his mark on the U.S. men’s national team with two international appearances in 2025, but by the end of last year, his career took a new turn when Chivas, a well-known Mexican club from Jalisco, expressed interest in him.
“I’ve always been a Chivas fan, so it was an obvious choice for me,” Gutiérrez stated.
Chivas represents an intriguing case in the intersection of sports and cultural identity, historically focusing on recruiting only Mexican players. The club has since modified its policies to include non-Mexican-born players who commit solely to the Mexican national team, leading to an influx of Mexican-Americans.
As Gutiérrez contemplated his future with the national team, joining Chivas offered new opportunities and a journey of self-discovery.
“Arriving at Chivas signaled a pivotal decision for me,” he acknowledged.
This threshold isn’t easily crossed and reflects the increasing ambiguity of national affiliations in soccer. Alongside Gutiérrez on Mexico’s roster this summer is Obed Vargas, who was born in Alaska. Meanwhile, U.S. national team striker Ricardo Pepi and Alejandro Zendejas, a standout for Club America—Chivas’ rival—navigate similar national team dilemmas.
Gutiérrez cherishes his bicultural identity: “I truly appreciate and love both aspects of my background,” he stated.
Yet, when asked if he would still support the USMNT this summer, he smiled and replied, "No comment."
As the World Cup unfolds, Gutiérrez feels confident in his choice. Preceding the first match, he described the experience as "living the dream," representing both Chivas and Mexico. He played a crucial role in the game against South Africa, not only making three key passes but also carrying the ball forward eight times, aiding Mexico's progression.
This Thursday, Mexico will face South Korea
in a homecoming of sorts at Chivas' Estadio Akron (Estadio Guadalajara). Whether starting or coming off the bench, Gutiérrez has quickly become a vital asset for the national team, particularly on familiar turf.
He recognizes the significance of this opportunity, aware of the underrepresentation of dual nationals like himself at the senior level. Of the 52 players representing either nation this summer, only four (7.7%) identify as Mexican-Americans. The dual pathways can sometimes create a sense of being overlooked.
“Talent is abundant everywhere, especially in the U.S. As a Mexican-American, while there’s potential, it feels like there haven’t been enough opportunities,” Gutiérrez reflected.
Regardless, he is ready to seize his chance this summer.
Will Gutiérrez help propel the national team deep into the World Cup? Could this experience lead him to play for an international club after the tournament? Does he envision making history at this event?
The humble Chicago native brushed off such inquiries. "I take it day by day," he affirmed. "That's how I approach it right now."