Right back Alex Freeman, a candidate for this year’s United States World Cup roster, completed his transfer on Thursday from MLS team Orlando City to LaLiga club Villarreal.
The 21-year-old is the son of former All-Pro wide receiver Antonio Freeman and made his debut for the U.S. national team in May against Turkey.
While Sergiño Dest was recovering from a torn ACL, Freeman bagged 13 international caps and tallied two goals during a friendly match against Uruguay in November.
Freeman finished third in the voting for the U.S. Soccer Federation Male Player of the Year award.
On Thursday, U.S. men’s national team coach Mauricio Pochettino expressed his support for Freeman’s transfer.
“I am not worried. I believe in the best outcomes for players during the transfer window. It’s crucial for the player to feel happy and comfortable,” Pochettino remarked.
Pochettino also mentioned that he had a conversation with Freeman before the transfer.
“If this move occurs, it’s because they aim to improve and grow. It’s a tremendous challenge that we need to endorse and assist in adapting to,” he added.
Freeman made his MLS debut for Orlando on April 29, 2023, coming on as a substitute in the second half. He had two short appearances in 2024, accumulating just 10 minutes, before becoming the starting right back last season, taking the position from Dagur Thórhallsson.
Last season, Freeman netted six goals across 29 league matches for Orlando. He earned a spot on the MLS All-Star roster and was honored as the MLS Young Player of the Year.
Orlando City has stated that they will receive a percentage of any future transfer fee for Freeman.
Antonio Freeman, now 53, played nine seasons in the NFL, making the All-Pro team in 1998 and winning the Super Bowl in 1997 with the Green Bay Packers.
Information from The Associated Press contributed to this report.