USMNT Player Tracker: Americans Shining in Europe as World Cup 2026 Approaches

This week’s USMNT Player Tracker highlights the evolving landscape for American soccer talent in Europe, with several players making significant moves and impactful performances as they gear up for a pivotal World Cup in 2026. Auston Trusty’s recent transfer from Sheffield United to Celtic marks a noteworthy development in the realm of American soccer. Joining Cameron Carter-Vickers at the Scottish giants, Trusty has the opportunity to not only solidify a defensive partnership but also to gain invaluable experience competing in the UEFA Champions League. Trusty expressed his excitement, stating, “It's a dream come true to join this club.” His enthusiasm reflects the historic significance of Celtic, a club known for its passionate fan base and rich heritage. Under the guidance of manager Brendan Rodgers, Trusty aims to elevate his game, which could enhance his standing within the USMNT as the team prepares for the upcoming World Cup. Meanwhile, Aidan Morris is making waves at Middlesbrough following his move from Columbus Crew. Under the mentorship of Michael Carrick, the young midfielder has started all four of his matches and impressed with his diligent performances. In a recent match against Cardiff City, Morris excelled in his role, contributing significantly to his team's 2-0 victory. Carrick praised Morris' playing style, indicating that his abilities align perfectly with the club’s philosophy. The 22-year-old's rapid adaptation bodes well for his prospects with the USMNT, as he has also been named to the squad for upcoming friendlies. Tanner Tessmann made his debut for Lyon in a thrilling 4-3 comeback victory over Strasbourg, which showcases the competitive nature of Ligue 1. Tessmann’s introduction from the bench adds depth to the American contingent in Europe, and with teammate Caleb Wiley assisting on a goal, the match proved to be a memorable outing for both players. Fulham's Antonee Robinson is another American who has been making headlines, although his absence from the upcoming international fixtures is due to minor surgeries. Despite this, he highlighted his importance to the squad with an assist in a Premier League game against Ipswich, showcasing his continued relevance in the top tier of English football. In the Netherlands, Malik Tillman continues to shine with PSV, contributing to his team’s perfect start to the season with an assist in their latest victory. His consistent performances bolster PSV's title defense and underline his potential as a key player for both club and country. Mark McKenzie is finding his feet at Toulouse, starting consecutive matches despite a setback in their latest clash against Marseille. Johnny Cardoso faced a tough challenge with Real Betis, but his resilience in midfield reflects the growing competitiveness of American players in top European leagues. Christian Pulisic remains a focal point of attention at AC Milan, where he secured an assist in a draw against Lazio. His ability to influence games in Serie A keeps him in the spotlight, demonstrating the impact of American players in one of Europe’s most prestigious leagues. As international fixtures approach, players like Lennard Maloney and Joe Scally aim for impactful performances, continuing to shape the narrative of USMNT talent abroad. With a rising number of Americans making their mark in Europe, the future looks promising as they prepare for a home World Cup, where the eyes of the soccer world will be firmly fixed on the United States.