Speculation is growing around potential transfers for American soccer players. With the 2026 World Cup approaching, several USMNT members might seek new clubs. Players such as Gio Reyna and Yunus Musah are currently facing limited opportunities at their current teams, which could jeopardize their chances of participating in the World Cup unless they secure more regular game time soon.
Though the 2026 World Cup is still some time away, the number of opportunities for players to make their case to the national team manager is decreasing. Some players like Sergino Dest and Folarin Balogun have been sidelined, while others like Josh Sargent and Gio Reyna have not consistently featured under the current management. This lack of regular playing time could affect their chances of being included in the final World Cup roster.
Given the critical period ahead, what transfers could benefit these USMNT players?
Potential Move: Gio Reyna to Real Betis
As one American player might leave Real Betis, it could be a fitting destination for another. Gio Reyna appears to be nearing the end of his tenure at Borussia Dortmund. With Real Betis securing Europa League qualification, and despite Isco being a regular starter in the attacking midfield role, opportunities will arise for rotation. Reyna could find valuable minutes here. Training alongside creative midfielders like Giovani Lo Celso and Isco, and working under manager Manuel Pellegrini, could provide an ideal environment for Reyna to revitalize his career. Betis has a history of developing players, making it a potentially strong option.
Potential Move: Yunus Musah to a Non-European Bundesliga Club
Finding it difficult to secure a regular starting spot at AC Milan, the anticipated `MMA` midfield trio has rarely materialized recently. Yunus Musah urgently needs a move to a club where he can play consistently. Given his strengths in pressing and dribbling, a team not involved in European competition might offer more immediate playing time at this stage of his career. At just 22, consistent opportunities in a suitable environment would be highly beneficial. As one of the USMNT`s potentially most gifted players, playing regularly is crucial for him to develop his full potential.
Potential Move: Marlon Fossey to Sunderland
Marlon Fossey, who has recently featured for the USMNT, could potentially challenge Joe Scally and Sergino Dest for starting positions, but this seems less likely to happen while he`s at Standard Liege in Belgium. A return to England could provide the necessary boost. Although moving from a starting role in Belgium is a gamble, a transfer to newly promoted Sunderland could offer Fossey the chance to earn a first-team place and contribute his attacking abilities to the squad. While staying in the Premier League will be challenging for Sunderland, excelling in that environment could cement Fossey`s position in the national team picture.
Matt Turner: Seeking a Starting Goalkeeper Position
Matt Turner is another player whose need for consistent playing time is paramount. He has faced limited opportunities for several seasons now. Even if it means returning to Major League Soccer, finding a starting role is crucial. The national team manager emphasizes the importance of key players featuring regularly, and while Turner has seemingly been an exception due to a lack of immediate challengers, the situation is changing. With emerging keepers like Matt Freese, Patrick Schulte, and Zack Steffen showing form, Turner`s position is not guaranteed. Therefore, he should actively pursue a transfer to a club where he can be the undisputed number one goalkeeper as soon as possible.
