Yesterday, Edgar Castillo told USSoccerPlayers.com that he would be interested in playing for the United States. Castillo, who has played previously for Mexico in friendlies and youth competitions, is eligible to play for the US due to a recent FIFA rule change. But is he serious?
There is little doubt that Castillo would help the US. He is a left sided player who can play in the midfield but most importantly as an outside back. The US’ biggest weakness is the left back position. He would immediately be called-in and given a chance to compete for the starting position.
But doubts remain over the seriousness of Castillo’s claim. Two years ago, he told Luis Bueno of SI.com that he would never play for the US. But what he did not count on was falling out of favor with the Mexican national team. He realizes that US needs a left back, and that he has a great chance of making the 2010 World Cup squad.
Or it could be a ploy. Jose Francisco Torres was courted heavily by the FMF after he expressed interest in playing for the US. Castillo could be using the rule change to improve his place in the Mexican national team setup.
The FMF does not want to lose its talented, young players to the United States. Torres was the first player who had options to play for both the US and Mexico, and he ultimately chose the US. Castillo is now the second. The FMF will do everything it can to prevent this from becoming a trend, with youngsters such as Bryan Leyva in the dual nationality pipeline.
Do you think Castillo is serious about playing for the US? How far will the FMF go to prevent Castillo from jumping sides? Do you see this as a chance for the USSF to help itself with Mexican-American players? Share your thoughts below.
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