Five years ago, Tim Ream faced the painful possibility that he might never play in a World Cup. In 2021, he was not at his best with Fulham and was not a primary consideration for U.S. manager Gregg Berhalter's roster for the 2022 World Cup.
Ream, who played in MLS for the Red Bulls in 2010-11 before moving to the Premier League, experienced a career resurgence. He became a consistent starter for Fulham, playing every minute and performing well. This turnaround earned him a spot on the 2022 World Cup squad and solidified his position as a top U.S. defender.
Now 38, Ream remains a vital component of the U.S. defense. Despite acknowledging he has lost a step, he continues to be a reliable presence on the back line. The U.S. team will depend on his experience and leadership when they face Bosnia-Herzegovina in a Round of 32 match on Wednesday night in Santa Clara.