Julian Araujo has become a staple for the LA Galaxy, standing out as one of the league’s brightest at only 21 years old.
He first kicked off with the Western Conference giants in 2019, working his way through the Academy before earning his first professional contract with the team. The defender’s initial season with the Galaxy saw him record just one assist in 18 appearances, slowly gaining confidence with each passing game.
Now, he’s managed one goal and 20 assists in 100 matches. He boasts nine assists and 14 goal-scoring attempts this season alone, inspiring the Galaxy to fourth place on the table and a slot in the playoffs.
His Major League Soccer success propelled Araujo towards a career in international football.
Araujo was born in Lompoc, California to Mexican parents, making him a prominent dual-nationality player. He initially represented the USMNT at several youth levels before making his senior debut in 2020. But he did not meet the cap maximum, making him eligible to switch his allegiance to Mexico.
In October 2021, the figure Julian Araujo declared his loyalty for the Mexican national team. He filed for FIFA’s one-time switch, leaving the United States men’s national team for El Tri.
After declining a call up by USMNT head coach Gregg Berhalter to the 2021 Gold Cup, the midfielder made the shocking announcement.
“It was one of the most important decisions I’ve ever had to make to this day. Ultimately it was one I made at heart. Ever since I was a little kid I wanted to represent Mexico. I dreamed of celebrating goals with Mexico, playing with the guys I am here with today,” he explained exclusively to 90min. “It was a dream come true.”
Since then, Araujo has recorded three appearances for the Mexican national team, debuting in December 2021 during an international friendly against Chile before going on to feature in World Cup qualifying matches.
The player recalled the feeling of sporting the special jersey for the first time, labeling the experience “beautiful.”
“When I first put on the jersey, I was very happy. It was just something that was going to come to life. It was something that was bound to happen. I was just so happy, I woke up in the hotel, sent videos to all my friends and family while getting ready for the game. It was a beautiful moment,” he said.
With a blossoming international career and a consistent spot in LA Galaxy’s starting 11, Julian Araujo is making himself known.
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