USMNT-capped Chicago Fire standout Brian Gutierrez eyes Mexico switch

Tom Weber

• Updated: 5 Nov 2025 11:55 CST
• 5 min read

News

Chicago Fire star Brian Gutierrez is in the process of getting a Mexican passport, according to multiple reports.

The 22-year-old is coming off his best personal season with the Chicago Fire, scoring 11 goals and providing four assists. Gutierrez was crucial as the Fire secured their first playoff berth since 2017 and first win since 2009 when they beat Orlando City in the Eastern Conference Wild Card game.

They were knocked out by Supporters' Shield winners Philadelphia at the weekend, but it was a promising season for Gutierrez and a franchise he has made his own since breaking onto the scene in 2020. The academy graduate is the heartbeat of the Fire's attack.

However, despite his performances in MLS, opportunities with the United States Men's National Team have been limited. Capped by the US since the U16 level, Gutierrez has to date only made two senior appearances.

These two caps only came at the customary January camp this year, which is generally reserved for domestic players as there is no European break in that period. Gutierrez made the 60-man preliminary Gold Cup roster in the summer, but he was ultimately cut and hasn't been in the frame since.

Gutierrez applies for Mexican passport

According to Super Deportivo and confirmed by The Athletic, Gutierrez is now in the process of getting his Mexican passport, which would allow him to file for a one-time switch with FIFA.

Mexico are interested in adding the 22-year-old to their options, but it is not set in stone yet that Gutierrez will become a new El Tri player. It is reported that he is still keeping his options open.

There is also a possibility that his decision is transfer-motivated. Reporter Tom Bogert points out that Liga MX giants Chivas had a 'sizeable' bid for Gutierrez rejected by Chicago last year.

This transfer would have necessitated the dual-national getting his passport sooner because Chivas only field players with a Mexican ID. Cade Cowell and Richard Ledezma both had to get Mexican passports to join the Guadalajara outfit in 2024 and 2025, respectively.

Perhaps the interest from Chivas remains. Time will tell if Gutierrez will go through with switching allegiances or if Mauricio Pochettino will afford him more opportunities with the USMNT before the World Cup.

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