USMNT Stars Shift Focus to 2026-27 Club Seasons Following World Cup
With international competition from the FIFA World Cup now concluded, star players from the U.S. men’s national soccer team (USMNT) are setting their sights on the upcoming 2026-27 club season in top European leagues. As more American talent transitions to elite clubs abroad, keeping track of these athletes can be overwhelming for even the most dedicated fans. To assist, ESPN has compiled a guide spotlighting ten USMNT players to watch this season.
Christian Pulisic
Pulisic’s World Cup performance was marked by inconsistency, managing just one assist in the tournament and expressing disappointment after the team’s round-of-16 exit. Positioned as an attacking midfielder or winger, Pulisic’s contributions hinge on his health and fitness, having missed seven matches last season due to injury. Now with AC Milan, he plays for a storied club seeking Champions League qualification.
Fans can watch Pulisic in action during Serie A matches on CBS and Paramount+, as well as in the UEFA Europa League and Coppa Italia.
Folarin Balogun
Balogun had a commendable World Cup, scoring three goals in four appearances despite off-field issues. As a striker for AS Monaco, he will aim to continue his strong form in Ligue 1, where he averaged a goal every 75 minutes last season. The club’s new manager, Filipe Luís, aims to address defensive vulnerabilities while retaining key players as speculation surrounds Balogun’s future amid rumored interest from Tottenham Hotspur.
Viewers can catch Balogun’s games on beIN Sports, Fox, and CBS.
Weston McKennie
An integral part of the USMNT, McKennie was the most utilized player in the World Cup, contributing significantly despite a rough match against Belgium. His versatility allows him to fill various roles for Juventus, which aspires to return to title contention after a sixth-place finish last season. The club also hopes for deep runs in the Europa League and Coppa Italia.
McKennie’s matches will be available on CBS and Paramount+.
Gio Reyna
Reyna’s World Cup experience was limited, but he scored in the opening game, prompting expectations for his involvement with Strasbourg in Ligue 1. His challenge this season is to establish himself as a starter after a series of bench appearances. Strasbourg is focused on securing European competition as well.
Fans can watch Reyna on platforms like beIN Sports and Fox.
Marcelo Balboa
Richards excelled as a defensive anchor during the World Cup, solidifying his role at Crystal Palace, which is aiming for mid-table stability in the Premier League. With ongoing management adjustments, Richards will need to enhance his game to meet higher expectations.
Catch Richards’ performances on NBC, USA, and Peacock.
Owen Freeman
Freeman emerged as a breakout star during the World Cup, showcasing his versatility at right back. Now with Villarreal, he will look to establish his place in a competitive squad, aiming for a continued upward trajectory after a rapid rise from MLS to La Liga.
Fans can view Freeman’s games in La Liga on ESPN and CBS.
Tyler Adams
Adams played a critical role in midfield during the World Cup, showcasing his defensive strengths. As he joins Bournemouth following a successful season, the club aims to build on its historic qualification for European competition. His durability will be key, as he hopes to avoid injuries that have plagued his career.
Watch Adams compete on NBC and CBS.
Dest, Robinson, and Tillman
Other notable players like Sergiño Dest, Antonee Robinson, and Malik Tillman also featured for the USMNT. Dest, with PSV, is under pressure to refine his defensive skills. Robinson is set to be a consistent option for Fulham, and Tillman hopes to solidify his standing with Bayer Leverkusen.
These athletes are expected to appear across various broadcasting networks, including CBS and ESPN.
Special Credits: Image Courtesy of Espn
