The women’s Soccer World Cup is in full swing and the USWNT has a jittery hold on its prospects for retaining the title. Our girls have already won us laurels by coming out of tough spots on the ranking table, and we are backing them to do the same again!
Both the women’s and men’s national teams have established a love of the beautiful game in the country with their skill, passion and dedication on and off the field. Over the years, US soccer has gone from strength to strength since Landon Donovan ignited the scene in 2002 during the FIFA World Cup held in Korea/Japan.
Soccer Soars in the States
Fans of soccer in the US cannot match the enthusiasm levels of their counterparts in South America, arguably so. But that may not be for long. World soccer has turned its eyes towards the U.S, the first, most memorable push coming when English superstar David Beckham joined L.A Galaxy way back in 2007.
MLS has spread its coverage all over North America with ESPN and FOX in the US, and DSTV in Canada. The current season is heading towards its mid-October crescendo, so the competition is heating up which brings a good jump-in point for seasonal fans.
Now, bigger and bigger players are choosing to spend their post-fame years in U.S clubs. It’s not just a money thing. The United States Soccer Federation has taken great strides in developing facilities and the science of soccer here. Dignity Park is a world class haven for player development, bolstered by a sprawling grassroots system.
The Stars Descend on US Soil
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup being jointly hosted by the U.S with Canada and Mexico, we expect U.S soccer to claim international acclaim. And we can’t wait!. Here are international soccer players in the U.S to watch out for:
Lionel Messi (Argentina)
The reigning king of soccer joined Inter Miami this year and shocked European and South Americans clubs alike. His much anticipated debut was attended by a full house at DRV PNK Stadium and there were no disappointments.
Messi led his team to a much-anticipated World Cup win to become current world champions. Now he has donned the baby pink jersey and made his mark in the U.S within days of arriving. More please!
Emanuel Reynoso (Argentina)
Emanuel Reynoso was born on November 16, 1995. He is also known as Babelo. An attacking midfielder for MLS Club Minnesota United, he is a shadow striker,and a dynamic player who prefers to play with his left foot.
Emanuel Reynoso made his United Minnesota debut on September 2, 2020. This incredible player was absent from the field for some personal reasons, but now he is back in action to entertain his fans.
Matias Pellegrini (Argentina)
Matias Pellegrini born on March 11, 2000. The argentinian talent had his debut with Inter Miami FC, but now the winger has officially left the club and is back in action with signing to the New York City FC as a left midfielder.
Pellegrini is known for his amazing skills in lapping the ball and his excellent passing skills. Always agile on the field and entertaining the viewers with his tactics and instantaneous speed.
Alexandre Pato (Brazil)
Alexandre Rodrigue De Silva, commonly known as Pato, is a Brazilian footballer who plays as a forward for Orlando City SC.
Pato had succeeded so early in his career that he won the FIFA Club WC with his club International at a very young age. This gave a major boost to his career ahead. He is quick and has a skillful grip on and off the ball, and has proven himself as a very good finisher.
Victor Wanyama (Kenya)
Victor Wanyama is a Kenyan Diligent soccer player born on June 25, 1991 in Nairobi. He plays as an all action midfield stopper that intimidates and breaks up the opposition’s play with his strength and fast speed. He plays for MLS Club CF Montreal Impact and the Kenyan national team.
Before joining Montreal Impact he used to play for several clubs including Celtic, Southampton, and Tottenham Hotspur. His ability to dominate the players on the ground using his clever tactics is a joy to watch.
Alan Pulido (Mexico)
Alan Pulido Izaguire is a dynamic Mexican player, born on 8 March 8, 1991. He made his professional debut for the club Guadalajara in 2010 helping them win three Liga MX titles.
He played for several clubs before making a final move to join Sporting Kansas City in 2020. He is known for his ability to create scoring opportunities for his team.
Blaise Matuidi (France)
A 35-year old French legend of the soccer world. His career spans two decades starting from the under-17 national team. His talents have spurred success at some of the most storied clubs in European soccer such as Paris Saint-Germain. After an eight-year stint in the French national team he now stars as a midfielder for Inter Miami CF.
Following in the footsteps of his country’s soccer greats, Matuidi is a master of control and passing skills on the ball. When he takes up his anticipated retirement in the coming year, it is certain that fans are going to miss him incredibly.
Gonzalo Higuain (Argentina)
One of the better known 35-year old Argentinian footballers who is currently playing as a striker for Inter Miami CF. He has won accolades for his clubs including Real Madrid and AC Milan.
This veteran player is famous for his extraordinary finishing skills. It’s no wonder that he is often relied upon to assist in close finishes. To witness his forwarding skills is nothing less than a pleasure for his fans.
Wrapping Up
It is always thrilling to see the arrival of players from around the globe who bring with them an arsenal of skills, techniques and strategies. The U.S is a sport-loving nation and sure knows how to provide the best arena to showcase these talented players.
Even if you are not a diehard soccer fan, it is worth checking out the bigger U.S clubs and their international megastars. When it’s time for the soccer world cup, you can wow your friends with your superior analysis and enjoy the tournament to a greater level.