Richy Ledezma, the talented 23-year-old midfielder who has been a rising star in American soccer, finds himself at a crossroads in his career. Despite being left out of Mauricio Pochettino’s latest PSV Eindhoven squad, Ledezma remains “in consideration” for the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT), according to sources close to the federation. However, the midfielder’s recent omission from club duties and growing speculation about a potential switch to the Mexican national team have added layers of intrigue to his story.
Ledezma, who joined PSV Eindhoven in 2019 after rising through the ranks of Real Salt Lake’s academy, has long been regarded as one of the most promising young talents in the U.S. player pool. Known for his technical ability, vision, and creativity in midfield, he has drawn comparisons to some of the game’s elite playmakers. Yet, his journey has been marred by injuries and inconsistent playing time, leaving his future at both club and international level uncertain.
The latest twist in Ledezma’s career came when he was left out of PSV’s squad for their recent Eredivisie match, raising questions about his standing at the Dutch club. Under manager Mauricio Pochettino, PSV have been in scintillating form, competing for the league title and making waves in European competitions. With competition for places fierce, Ledezma has struggled to secure regular minutes, prompting speculation about a potential loan move or even a permanent transfer in the near future.
While his club situation remains unsettled, Ledezma’s international future has become a topic of intense debate. Born in Phoenix, Arizona, to Mexican parents, the midfielder is eligible to represent both the United States and Mexico at the senior level. He has previously featured for the USMNT, earning four caps and showcasing his potential in friendly matches. However, his absence from recent U.S. squads has fueled rumors that he could be considering a switch to El Tri.
Sources within the USMNT setup have indicated that Ledezma is still very much in their plans, with head coach Gregg Berhalter keeping a close eye on his development. “Richy is a player with immense talent, and we believe he has a bright future with the national team,” a federation insider revealed. “His situation at PSV is something we’re monitoring, but he remains in consideration for upcoming call-ups.”
The possibility of Ledezma representing Mexico, however, adds a fascinating dimension to the narrative. The Mexican Football Federation (FMF) has a history of successfully recruiting dual-national players, and Ledezma’s skill set would make him an attractive option for El Tri. With both nations set to co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the race to secure the allegiance of talented dual-nationals like Ledezma has taken on added significance.
For Ledezma, the decision about his international future is likely to be influenced by a combination of factors, including playing time, personal connections, and long-term ambitions. While he has expressed pride in representing the United States, the allure of playing for Mexico—a nation with a rich footballing tradition and a passionate fan base—could prove difficult to resist.
The midfielder’s situation is emblematic of the broader challenges facing young American players abroad. While the U.S. player pool has never been deeper, many talents struggle to break into top European teams, where competition for places is fierce. Ledezma’s experience at PSV highlights the delicate balance between development and playing time, as well as the importance of finding the right environment to thrive.
Back in the United States, fans and pundits alike are closely following Ledezma’s journey. His potential to become a key figure for the USMNT is undeniable, but his path to fulfilling that potential remains uncertain. The coming months will be crucial, as decisions about his club future and international allegiance could shape the trajectory of his career.
For Gregg Berhalter and the USMNT, the hope is that Ledezma can overcome his current challenges and establish himself as a regular contributor. With a busy schedule of CONCACAF Nations League matches, Copa América, and World Cup qualifiers on the horizon, the national team will need all of its top talents firing on all cylinders. Ledezma’s creativity and technical ability could be invaluable assets in the quest for silverware and a strong showing on home soil in 2026.
As for Mexico, the prospect of adding a player of Ledezma’s caliber to their ranks is undoubtedly enticing. With a new generation of talent emerging, El Tri are looking to build a squad capable of competing with the world’s best. Ledezma’s dual-national status makes him a prime target, and the FMF is likely to step up its efforts to persuade him to switch allegiances.
In the meantime, Ledezma remains focused on proving his worth at PSV and reigniting his career. Whether he stays in the Netherlands, seeks a move elsewhere, or ultimately decides to represent Mexico, one thing is clear: his talent is too great to be overlooked.
The story of Richy Ledezma is a reminder of the complexities and uncertainties that come with being a young footballer. As he navigates the challenges of club and international football, his journey will be closely watched by fans on both sides of the border. For now, the ball is in his court, and the decisions he makes in the coming months could define his legacy in the beautiful game.
For the USMNT, the hope is that Ledezma’s future remains red, white, and blue. But in the high-stakes world of international football, nothing is guaranteed. One thing is certain: Richy Ledezma’s story is far from over, and the next chapter promises to be as compelling as the last.
