Pico Rivera native Cristian Roldan hopes to rep Team USA in the World Cup

Pico Rivera native Cristian Roldan, who plays for Seattle Sounders FC, could soon represent Team USA again in the 2026 World Cup.

In a matter of weeks, the midfielder will know if he made the team. However, his impact has already been felt in his hometown.

Roldan, a graduate of El Rancho High School, left a lasting impression on his alma mater. A standout during his time in school, he was named the National High School Player of the Year in 2013.

“El Rancho helped me become a pro,” Roldan said.

Now playing professionally in Seattle and on the radar for the U.S. World Cup roster for a second time, Roldan hasn’t forgotten where it all started. A few months ago, he came back home to meet with the players on the school’s current team and remind them that anything is possible.

“I’m not that much different from those kids in that high school,” the soccer star said. “I grew up in the same neighborhood, same system.”

Roldan said he’s hoping to make the Team USA roster again as a thank you to the country. His parents immigrated to the U.S. from El Salvador and Guatemala and although the soccer star couldn’t played for those countries, he chose the U.S. for a purpose that’s bigger than him.

“I’d love to see more Latinos (on Team USA),” Roldan said. “Hopefully the younger generation feels inspired to make it.”