Speculation surrounding potential transfers for American soccer players is already active. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, many players involved with the United States men`s national team could be seeking new clubs. For individuals like Gio Reyna and Yunus Musah, who are currently struggling for minutes at their respective teams, securing consistent playing time quickly is essential, or their chances of featuring at the World Cup might diminish.
The 2026 World Cup might seem distant, but it is now less than two years away. This means opportunities for players to impress the national team coach are becoming increasingly limited. Coach Gregg Berhalter has recently taken charge (Note: The original text mentions Pochettino, assuming this is a reference error and should be Berhalter for USMNT). He has faced situations where players like Sergino Dest or Folarin Balogun were unavailable. Others, including Josh Sargent and Gio Reyna, have experienced inconsistent roles under the new management, which could significantly impact their selection status for the World Cup roster.
Considering the crucial summer transfer window ahead, what potential club moves could prove beneficial for several USMNT players?
Gio Reyna to Real Betis
With the possibility of one American player leaving the Spanish side Real Betis, it could be a logical step for another to join. Gio Reyna`s future at Borussia Dortmund appears uncertain, suggesting a move is likely. Real Betis has qualified for the Europa League next season. While Isco is the primary attacking midfielder, he won`t play every match, creating an opening for a player like Reyna. The opportunity to learn from experienced attacking midfielders like Isco and Giovani Lo Celso, and to be coached by Manuel Pellegrini, could be an ideal environment for Reyna to regain his form and confidence. Real Betis has a track record of successfully integrating various players, making it a potentially suitable destination.
Yunus Musah to any Bundesliga team not in European competition
Yunus Musah is currently struggling to secure a regular starting spot at AC Milan, meaning the anticipated “MMA” midfield partnership with Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie for the USMNT has rarely materialized recently. Musah urgently needs to move to a club where he is guaranteed consistent playing time. Given his key strengths lie in pressing and dribbling, a team not burdened by European fixtures at this stage of his career might be the most beneficial. At just 22, securing regular minutes in the right system is paramount for his development. As potentially one of the most gifted players in the USMNT pool, he needs game time to refine all aspects of his game.
Marlon Fossey to Sunderland
Marlon Fossey, a player who has recently been included in the USMNT picture, has the potential to challenge Joe Scally and Sergino Dest for a starting right-back spot at the World Cup. However, achieving this while playing for Standard Liege in Belgium seems unlikely. A return move to England could provide the necessary impetus for Fossey`s career progression. While leaving a starting role in Belgium is a risk, a move to newly promoted Sunderland in the Championship could offer Fossey the opportunity to establish himself as a starter and contribute his attacking flair to the Black Cats. Succeeding and standing out, even in a demanding league like the Championship, could solidify his position in the national team squad.
Matt Turner to anywhere where he is the number one goalkeeper
Matt Turner is another player for whom being selective about his next club based on playing time is not an option. He has faced limited game time for several seasons now. Finding a club where he is the undisputed starting goalkeeper is crucial, even if that means returning to Major League Soccer. The national team coach has emphasized the importance of consistent club performance for his key players, and Turner has arguably been an exception, largely due to a lack of perceived direct competition for the USMNT goalkeeper position. However, with goalkeepers like Matt Freese, Patrick Schulte, and Zack Steffen developing and pushing for a spot, this situation could change. Therefore, seeking a move for regular first-team football as soon as possible is imperative for Turner.
Dominic Ashworth