In the world of soccer, the year 2024 is shaping up to be a crucial one for the U.S. men’s national team. With the benefit of hindsight, it will be remembered as a year of much-needed transition for the squad. The upcoming September fixtures present the first opportunity to move on from the disappointment of the Copa America.
Although the team has already parted ways with former head coach Gregg Berhalter, the reunion under interim leadership with Mikey Varas at the helm signifies a fresh start. Varas will be overseeing a mix of established players and rising talents as U.S. Soccer finalizes negotiations with Mauricio Pochettino.
The recent transfer window saw some key United States internationals struggle to secure moves that would elevate their club statuses. From players stuck in reserve roles to those in need of a change, questions arise regarding the caliber of the player pool. Nevertheless, a select group of individuals, including four players on Varas’ roster, have earned their spots through consistent performances at club level. They will look to impress in matches against Canada and New Zealand to stake their claim for future call-ups.
One player facing a challenging situation is Matt Turner, who failed to secure a move from Nottingham Forest for more playing time. Now at Crystal Palace, he finds himself backing up Dean Henderson, a far cry from his ambitions of being a regular starter. The 30-year-old goalkeeper will need to fight hard to maintain form and make a case for his spot in the national team.
On the other hand, Patrick Schulte of Columbus Crew emerges as a potential contender for the starting goalkeeper position. His stellar performances in MLS have caught the eye of many, boasting an impressive goal prevention rate well above the league average. Schulte’s ability to play out from the back and execute long passes adds another dimension to his game, making him a valuable asset for the team.
Diego Kochen’s inclusion in the squad as a young talent from FC Barcelona II has garnered attention, but it’s Schulte who could pose a real threat to Turner’s position in the long run. With his exceptional abilities and form, the 23-year-old could challenge for the starting role leading up to the 2026 World Cup.
In a surprising move, Auston Trusty’s transfer from Colorado Rapids to Arsenal raised eyebrows in the soccer world. However, the 26-year-old defender’s loan spells and subsequent move to Celtic have proven beneficial for his career. Teaming up with Cameron Carter-Vickers, Trusty aims to solidify his place in the national team setup and continue to impress on the field.
Despite the congestion in the central defense position, Trusty and his counterparts have a chance to shine and prove their worth. The recent decisions made by Olympic coach Marko Mitrovic to include experienced defenders for the Paris Games hint at a lack of promising prospects in the pipeline. This creates an opportunity for Trusty, Carter-Vickers, and others to stake their claim for a permanent spot in the squad.
As the U.S. men’s national team enters a new era under Varas’ leadership, the upcoming fixtures present a pivotal moment for the players to showcase their abilities and push for greater recognition on the international stage. The journey towards success is paved with challenges, but with determination and hard work, the team can overcome any obstacle in their path. Now is the time for the squad to rise to the occasion and prove their worth as they look ahead to a bright future in American soccer.
