In the FIFA World Cup in Korea-Japan 2002, Arellano made a less of an impact as a substitute. He was among the starting eleven for three matches, where he helped his country reach the "Elimination Round of 16" of the tournament. In total, he has amassed 70 caps for Mexico, scoring seven times and was among 23 players selected by coach Ricardo La Volpe, to play in the 2006 FIFA World Cup. Arellano played one match throughout the tournament and only appeared in the 2nd half as a substitute player in a 0-0 draw, against Angola.