Jana Gutiérrez on Her Call-Up to Mexico’s National Team and Success at Club América

Manager Pedro López named Celeste Espino, Kimberly Rodríguez, Jana Gutiérrez, Nancy Antonio, Escarlet Camberos, and Kiana Palacios to El Tri’s latest squad. The six selections put América ahead of Pachuca, which placed four players on the national team roster.

América Leads National Team Selection Count

Gutiérrez revealed that the national team manager contacted her roughly two weeks prior to the roster announcement to discuss her tactical role on the pitch. During that conversation, López asked about her physical condition and how she would feel about returning to the national setup.

“Pedro marked me about two weeks ago and asked me how I felt, he told me some things that he wanted about the position, (he asked) how I would feel if he called me and obviously, (I answered) super happy, super proud,” Gutiérrez told reporters in a press conference.

The defender shared the news with her family immediately, viewing the selection as an important first step for the club’s contingent. She noted that the heavy representation from América stems directly from the depth and ambition of the squad built in Mexico City.

“Then (after finding out) I told my family, I think it is a great first step. It is something we knew because with all due respect we have had a great roster, and we knew that several would come out of here, and I think America is very proud because we never stop thinking higher,” Gutiérrez said.

Domestic Success Versus European Transfers

Addressing common narratives surrounding career progression in women’s soccer, Gutiérrez pushed back against the notion that leaving Liga MX Femenil is a strict prerequisite for a successful professional career. While she acknowledged that international moves remain common for top Mexican talent, she emphasized the rapid evolution of the domestic league.

“Many people have detected that having success is leaving your country and for me it is not like that. I think I can have success within my country especially because of how the League has evolved and how I have evolved,” Gutiérrez stated.

Although she does not feel stagnant in Mexico, she stopped short of ruling out a future transfer abroad if her sporting growth eventually requires a change of scenery.

“If I felt stagnant, I would be the first to say, I have to go. I really think that every day I am learning here at Club América, so for the moment I haven’t thought about leaving, but I don’t rule it out,” she added.

Squad Depth and Future Call-Ups

With six players currently representing the Azulcrema in the national team camp, Gutiérrez believes the club’s footprint with El Tri will only expand. She pointed to teammates currently recovering from injuries as potential additions to future squads under López.

“Now there are six of us, but later for sure seven can go, some more will join, some who are coming out of injuries,” Gutiérrez said.