FIFA clears Galaxy's Araujo to switch from United States to Mexico national team

After playing one game for the United States, defender Julian Araujo has been cleared to change his national eligibility to Mexico, FIFA said on Monday.

The 20-year-old LA Galaxy defender made his debut for the U.S. last December, starting at right back in a 6-0 win over El Salvador.

- Don't have ESPN? Get instant access

- ESPN+ viewers' guide: LaLiga, Bundesliga, MLS, FA Cup, more

Araujo, who is from Lompoc, Calif., previously represented the U.S. at age-group levels through the Under-23 team.

In March, he played for the U.S. U23 team against Mexico in a Tokyo Olympics qualification game.

Mexico won 1-0 and eventually advanced to Tokyo, getting a bronze medal.

As a dual national with Mexican family ties, Araujo was eligible within FIFA's rules to switch national teams and was yet to play a competitive game for the U.S. senior team.

"My heart is with Mexico," Araujo said in a statement on Tuesday. "I'm grateful for every opportunity that U.S. Soccer has provided me to help me grow as a soccer player and now I am excited to continue my international career with Mexico."

Mexico faces the U.S. in their 2022 World Cup quaIification group on Nov. 12 in Cincinnati.