The next great battle for a dual-national between the USA and Mexico is set to heat up after recent comments from Efrain Alvarez.

The LA Galaxy academy forward is setting the USL alight with eight goals in as many games played so far this season and has many wondering where his international allegiances lie.

Alvarez, 16, started his youth national team career with the United States under-15 team in 2016 before deciding to play for Mexico’s setup after reportedly being upset about getting dropped from a camp.

Despite the change, it now appears that the hope of Alvarez switching back to the USA is not lost. Speaking to MLSSoccer.com ahead of a training session for the MLS Homegrown Game, the promising youngster left the door wide open for U.S. Soccer to convince him to come back.

“I’m not closing the door on anyone. I could still play for the U.S. or I could keep playing for Mexico. But I’m with Mexico right now and that’s my focus.” —Efrain Alvarez; Source: MLSSoccer.com

While it’s extremely early to pressure a prospect as young as Alvarez to decide on his international future, the talent he’s shown so far in the USL will likely have both federations trying their hardest to ensure he plays for them.

Alvarez was most recently called up by Mexico for a U-17 camp in late July. Can U.S. Soccer convince him to change his mind? That will likely be up to General Manager Earnie Stewart and whoever he decides to hire as the new USMNT manager.