Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Efraín Álvarez

Discover the career path of Efraín Álvarez, from the first major opportunity to industry-changing achievements.

Efraín Álvarez is a professional footballer. Born in the United States, he represents the Mexico national team as an attacking midfielder. He currently plays for Liga MX club Guadalajara.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements

April 2016: Captained U.S. U15s at International Festival of Fútbol

In April 2016, Álvarez captained the United States U15 team at the 2016 International Festival of Fútbol in Rosario, Argentina, leading the team to a title and scoring a hat-trick in the opening match.

June 2016: Called to United States U15s for Tournament in Zagreb

In June 2016, Álvarez was called to the United States U15s for a four-team tournament in Zagreb, Croatia, where he made one start against Croatia U15s.

September 2016: Began Playing for Mexico U15's

In September 2016, Álvarez began playing for Mexico U15's.

August 2, 2017: Signed with LA Galaxy II

On August 2, 2017, Álvarez signed with LA Galaxy II of the United Soccer League, becoming the youngest signing in USL history at 15 years, one month, and 14 days.

August 11, 2017: Scored Brace for Mexico U15s

On August 11, 2017, Álvarez scored a brace for Mexico U15s in a friendly 7–0 win over the Cayman Islands U17.

2018: Moved to LA Galaxy, loaned back to LA Galaxy II

In 2018, Álvarez was moved to the parent club LA Galaxy but was loaned back to the reserve team, LA Galaxy II.

March 2, 2019: Senior Team Debut and Assist

On March 2, 2019, Álvarez made his senior team debut and assisted on a goal during a 2–1 victory over the Chicago Fire.

2019: Participated in the U-17 World Cup

In 2019, Álvarez participated in the U-17 World Cup, scoring four goals and helping Mexico finish as runner-up against Brazil.

September 2, 2020: First MLS Goal

On September 2, 2020, Álvarez scored his first MLS goal against the Portland Timbers, which contributed to a 3–2 win.

November 2020: Called Up to United States National Team

In November 2020, Álvarez was called up to the United States national team for a friendly match against El Salvador but did not play.

March 2021: Debut with Mexico National Team

In March 2021, Álvarez was called up to the Mexico national team and on March 30, he made his debut against Costa Rica, coming on as a substitute.

June 2021: Confirmed Commitment to Mexico

In June 2021, Álvarez confirmed his commitment to play for Mexico, and was later added to the 2021 CONCACAF Gold Cup squad.

July 10, 2021: Permanently Cap-Tied to Mexico

On July 10, 2021, Álvarez's appearance against Trinidad and Tobago permanently cap-tied him to Mexico, solidifying his commitment to the national team.