The United States is clearly on the up in terms of football, and it is no surprise to see that more players from the nation are finding their way to top clubs in Europe, and now the grandest stage of all- the Premier League.
Ahead of the World Cup, the United States are ranked as one of the top dark horses and there could be some value going with USMNT tips World Cup 2022.
In times past, USMNT stars were mostly based in the local leagues and only a few could make it to other leagues, but only a very select few were visible in top leagues and clubs. The likes of Tim Howard, Landon Donovan and Clint Dempsey are hallmarks of American Football and their footprints are still well displayed in English football.
Christian Pulisic remains the best and biggest export of the United States in recent times. Though now used in a sub-par role at Chelsea, his ability to provide mercurial moments still place him as the best chance the United States have of going far in the World Cup come November.
Jesse Marsch’s arrival as head coach of Leeds United has also done more good for American football. His appointment has paved the way for even more Americans seeking visibility in the Premier League. The likes of Tyler Adams and Brenden Aaronson are current beneficiaries of this benevolence.
The United States have always been a continental powerhouse in football, but with the current crop of exposed talents available to Greg Berhalter, the bar has been raised and a no show at the World Cup in Qatar is harder to conceive by the day.
Here are some of the USMNT stars in the Premier League.
Zack Steffen (Manchester City)
The Manchester City goalkeeper, who is currently on loan at Middlesborough, is the first choice goalie for coach Gregg Berhalter.
Though he faces an uphill battle with Matt Turner to maintain this status quo, he will undoubtedly make the roster to Qatar. Based on the antecedence of things be the first choice goalkeeper.
Matt Turner (Arsenal)
The new Arsenal signing is raving to get his first competitive game for the Gunners. He made the dream move from MLS side, New England Revolution. He had a brilliant season at the club after he emerged as the best goalkeeper in the league, with his consistent displays and wonderful saves.
He looks set for an understudy role at not just Arsenal but also in the USMNT national team, as Berhalter rates Steffen higher at the moment.
Antonee Robinson (Fulham)
The Fulham defensive stalwart has been generating positive reviews due to his performances over the years, but he is back in the Premier League and so far, he has not done badly at all.
The Premier League offers more competition and quality, which is expected to test the defender even more and bring out the best in him. On the bright side, this could bode well for the United States come November. He is almost guaranteed to start in the first eleven when the tournament kicks off.
Chris Richards (Crystal Palace)
The young and talented centre back has been loaned out to Hoffenheim for two consecutive seasons to gain some valuable experience. However, he is back to work hard to earn Patrick Vieira’s trust at Selhurst Park.
Though he has a lot of work to do in order to polish certain aspects of his game, his talent is undeniable and he should if all things are equal be in the 25 man squad to Qatar.
Tyler Adams (Leeds United)
The energetic and box to box midfielder is invaluable to the United States national team. His power and raw ability is rare and his performances so far at Leeds has earned him rave reviews.
He will no doubt have more game time than he had at RB Leipzig and this should be crucial in locking down a World Cup spot for the midfield genius.
Christian Pulisic (Chelsea)
The Captain America himself! He is no doubt the biggest name on the United States roster and his talents are unparalleled. However, injuries has always been a problem for the technically gifted winger and has hampered his development at Stamford Bridge.
The investment made by Chelsea in the attacking areas would see him further drop down the pecking order, and earn him fewer minutes. However, he is a regular feature at the United States camp, and his inclusion in the team is nonnegotiable.
Brenden Aaronson (Leeds United)
Here is yet another brewed talent that has found his way to the Premier league through Jesse Marsch. The signing of the talented forward was greeted with lots of skepticism and doubt as many wondered what he could have to offer in a difficult and punishing league such as the Premier League.
However, he has been immense for Leeds United this season. His dynamism and versatility is also a huge advantage for him, as he could play as a No. 8 or even a No. 10 and also on the wings. This also makes him a problem for the manager as he would have to find out his best position come November. His position in the squad is certainly a guarantee and a no-brainer. A majority of the Premier League United States national team contingent are primed to make the squad not just because of the quality of the league, but because the intensity of the league is clearly having an effect on their all-round game. This is expected to yield numerous and bountiful benefits for Gregg Berhalter and the country at large come November in Qatar.
