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Jeff Carlisle
The end of the 2025 MLS season marked a significant year for several U.S. men’s national team players within the league. Notable names, including Max Arfsten of the Columbus Crew, Alex Freeman from Orlando City, Matt Freese of New York City FC, and Diego Luna from Real Salt Lake, have all seen their profiles rise in both club and international play, supporting U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino’s commitment to discovering talented players to support his squad.
The offseason prompts these players to evaluate their current situations and ponder the crucial question: Is it time to advance their careers with a move abroad? This decision is particularly complex at this moment.
With the European winter transfer window approaching and next summer’s World Cup on the horizon, players are cautious about jeopardizing their positions, especially with Pochettino’s expectations in mind. Ensuring ample playing time is vital, regardless of location. The significance of the upcoming World Cup complicates matters further.
“Entering the six-month mark before a World Cup is a rare opportunity for American, Canadian, and Mexican players to secure a spot on the roster and play in their home country,” remarked Richard Motzkin, executive vice president and managing director of global soccer at Wasserman, a firm representing numerous USMNT players. “You want to maximize your chances of making the team.”
“Competing in a World Cup is a dream for every soccer player, and doing so on home soil is an unimaginable opportunity that must be approached wisely for the best chance to achieve it.”
No two situations are the same. While some players have solid circumstances, others are more uncertain. Freese extended his contract through 2030 in September, and sources indicate he has “no interest” in a move. Given that his competition lies primarily within MLS, with players like Matt Turner of the New England Revolution and Patrick Schulte from Columbus also vying for a starting position, Freese feels secure in his role. He can pursue future opportunities after the World Cup.
Similarly, Arfsten and Luna are tied into contracts for several more years, though their circumstances may allow for more movement. Arfsten captured the interest of Middlesbrough earlier in the season, but Columbus’ asking price surpassed the offered amounts. Nevertheless, the Crew has shown a tendency to transfer players when the timing and financial incentives align.
For attacking players like Luna, proving their value is often more challenging than for others on the field. Moreover, RSL aims to build a future around him.
“While a transfer for Luna isn’t very likely at the moment, circumstances can change rapidly,” noted RSL chief soccer officer and sporting director Kurt Schmid. “Any potential move would need to be ideal for all parties involved, particularly with the World Cup approaching, which is a valid concern for any player.”
Freeman’s case stands apart. His swift ascent in club and national team ranks has been impressive, highlighted by a two-goal performance against Uruguay last November. He has expressed a preference to remain with Orlando.
“My focus for January and February is performing at my best in Orlando,” Freeman stated to ESPN in November. “I feel comfortable in my current situation, contributing to the team without needing to adjust my playing style. I’m content here and confident in my ability to secure playing time as we go through preseason.”
However, player and club desires do not always align. Freeman’s contract will conclude at the end of 2026, and sources reveal that Orlando has extended a lucrative offer for him that would significantly increase his current salary, though he is not expected to sign. This puts Orlando in a precarious position as they risk losing him without compensation next season if they don’t consider a transfer now.
Villarreal, a LaLiga club, reportedly had an offer rejected but continues to be interested, which suggests potential for a compromise: a transfer with a loan back to Orlando until after the World Cup. This would allow Freeman to secure a move while preserving his national team standing, providing Orlando with some financial return. Ultimately, Freeman holds the advantage in this scenario.
As the World Cup draws closer, while most transfer matters seem resolved, a few situations remain in flux.