Following a summer highlighted by the World Cup, several key players for the U.S. Men's National Team are navigating their club futures, with some seeing their stock rise and others facing challenges. Soccer analyst Alexi Lalas has assessed the performances and standing of notable USMNT figures such as Folarin Balogun, Christian Pulisic, and Weston McKennie as they return to their European clubs.
Folarin Balogun appears to be the biggest riser among the USMNT's European-based stars. The 25-year-old striker concluded the tournament with three goals, including two in the opening match. Despite a late-game red card controversy, his scoring form has positioned him well for both club and country. Lalas noted that Balogun "came out probably on top if you're power ranking who came out in the best possible light." His club future remains a topic of discussion, with reports linking him to a potential move to a Premier League club like Tottenham Hotspur from his current team, Monaco, where he recorded 19 goals and 4 assists in 43 appearances last season.
Christian Pulisic, a prominent winger, had a more difficult World Cup, impacted by an early leg injury that limited his effectiveness. He did not score during the tournament. Lalas suggested Pulisic's stock was declining even before the World Cup, citing a perceived failure to fully capitalize on his role as a "poster boy of this American team." Returning to AC Milan under new manager Ruben Amorim, Pulisic faces a critical season. After a strong start to the previous Serie A campaign, he has struggled for consistent scoring, not finding the net for AC Milan since December, despite contributing 10 goals and 4 assists in 34 appearances last season.
Weston McKennie, a midfielder for Juventus, had a strong club season despite facing managerial changes. He has consistently proven his value to the Italian club, registering 9 goals and 8 assists in 48 appearances. Lalas described McKennie's year as "banner," highlighting his adaptability and ability to become a "valuable asset very quickly." While his World Cup performance was deemed "fine," his overall club season was seen as a success.
Tyler Adams, a midfielder for Bournemouth, remains a dependable presence in the midfield. After an injury-shortened club season, he looked solid during the tournament. At 27, Adams is considered to be in his prime and is expected to be a key player under new manager Marco Rose. Lalas noted that Adams's "knocks that he takes and the injuries and the time out" have been a concern, but believes "we have yet to see the best of Tyler Adams." He made 2 goals and 2 assists in 26 appearances for Bournemouth last season.
Malik Tillman, an attacking midfielder, showed flashes of his potential with two goals in the World Cup, including a game-winner. The 24-year-old, who made 8 goals and 1 assist in 42 appearances for Bayer Leverkusen last season, is expected to build on this momentum in his second year with the German club. Lalas commented on Tillman's "wonderful World Cup," noting that he "showed different facets of the game and the layers that he showed."
Gio Reyna, another midfielder, scored one of the USMNT's notable goals in the World Cup but was less impactful thereafter. The 23-year-old has transferred to French club Strasbourg after a season with Borussia Mönchengladbach where he recorded 1 goal and 1 assist in 20 appearances. Lalas views this move as an opportunity for Reyna to "reach his potential" and sees it as a "last chance to impress in Europe," though he frames it as potentially a "step-down in competition."
Sergiño Dest, a versatile defender, has demonstrated his ability to play in various fullback roles. After an inconsistent World Cup campaign, the 25-year-old completed a title-winning season with PSV Eindhoven, contributing 1 goal and 5 assists in 27 appearances. Lalas acknowledged Dest as a "quality player" but noted that his standing with the national team under coach Pochettino might be shifting. His performance at PSV could position him for a return to a top European league, though Lalas also noted that his stock could be viewed as either up or down depending on the perspective.