Notes & Tidbits
NWSL Has added Roku Channel as a Partner to replace Victory+. Many Sunday night games including the Seattle Reign vs Houston Dash this Sunday at 7 pm. Two-time World Cup Champion with the USWNT and nutmeg queen Tobin Heath (Tobinyo) officially retired from pro soccer after signing a one-day contract with the Portland Thorns, and the club celebrated her legendary career last Saturday. Still the most skilled ballhandler the US has ever had. No. 1 Gotham has the Shield in its sights and they host #3 Portland in this weekend’s toughest NWSL clash. Gotham sits atop the NWSL table on a nine-game unbeaten streak, while the Thorns are carrying their own three-game winning streak bolstered by Sophia Wilson and Pietra Tordin, Portland ranks third in goals scored — but will meet its match in the Bats’ league-best defense.
Germany Starts league play this weekend and of course Bayern Munich will win the league (Again) – I think Dortmund will hold second while Beyer Leverkusen with American Malick Tilman, and RB Leipzig will battle it out for 3rd. The biggest change will be watching the games on Fandango in English and Peacock in Spanish as ESPN+ lost the contract. Stinks! (Full Preview Below).
Over the weekend, The Guardian reported that UEFA and Concacaf had begun discussing a combined Nations League tournament. A 96-team biennial tournament could launch as early as 2028 after the Euro’s. That might allow the US, Canada & Mexico play European teams in a Nations League setting. A baby got loose on the field
Indy 11 Beat Louisville Sat @ Phoenix Rising 10:30 pm ESPN+
Indianapolis – Indy Eleven midfielder Jack Blake scored his 45th USL Championship goal to give the Boys in Blue a 2-1 victory over Eastern Conference rival Louisville City FC in front of 9,542 fans at Carroll Stadium. Boys in Blue goalkeeper Eric Dick (CDC, Carmel High) matched his season high with seven saves to increase his career total to 307 in USL-C regular-season play, good for 18th on the league all-time list. Indy Eleven takes its two-game winning streak to Phoenix Rising FC on Sat. August 29 at 10:30 p.m. ET on ESPN+. The next home game for the Boys in Blue is “Oktoberfest” on Saturday, September 5 at 7 p.m. vs. Birmingham Legion FC. Indy Eleven will wear special Oktoberfest warm-up jerseys. Discounted tickets starting at $14 are available online and fans can add on an Oktoberfest knit scarf at checkout for $20. The Family Four-Pack is available for all 2026 home games and can be purchased online only. Priced at just $49, the Family Four-Pack includes four tickets, FREE parking, $20 in Concession Vouchers, and a 20% Merchandise Discount, along with access to the Fun Zone/Kids Activation Area.
MLS teams blasted out of Leagues Cup
The Leagues Cup 2026 semi-final field is set after all 4 of the MLS teams lost to the Liga MX teams in the quarterfinals. This will be the first time no MLS team is in the Final 4 in the tourney history. Seattle won the Cup in 2025.
High School Wrap –
Boys defending State Champs Carmel High are off to rough starting having lost to Lawrence Central and tied Ben Davis & Cathedral so far. They host Brebeuf Tues & travel to Fishers Thurs. The 3rd ranked Carmel High Girls are off to a great start at 3-0 with zero goals given up by star Sophomore GK Gwyneth Provost. They host the Carmel Invite at Murray Stadium Sat vs Cathedral & Mishawaka before traveling to Pike Tues & Guerin (Thurs). Full rankings below.
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Ben’s BBQ Shack near Grand Park has the Best Dang Brisket you can buy in Indiana
TV Schedule
Fri, Aug 28
2:45 pm Para+ AC Milan (Musah, Pulisic) vs Venezia (Busio)
2:45 pm beIN Sp Lille vs PSG
3 pm Para+ Birmingham City vs Wrexham
3 pm USA Crystal Palace (Richards) vs Man City
8 pm Prime Gotham FC (Lavelle) vs Portland Thorns (Wilson, Moultrie)
Sat, Aug 29
7;30 am USA Liverpool vs Nottingham Forest
7:30 am Para+ Middlesbrough (3 americans) vs West Bromwich Albion
9:30 am peacock/Fandango Elversburg vs Bayer Leverkusen
9:30 am Peacock/Fan RB Leipzig vs Borussia M’Gladbach
9:30 am Peacock/Fan Union Berlin vs Frankfurt
10 am USA Everton vs Crystal Palace (Richards)
10 am NBCSN Bournmouth (Adams) vs Everton
10 am Para+ Wrexham vs Watford
12:30 pm NBC Tottenham vs Newcastle United
12:30 pm USA Dortmund vs Hamburger
12:30 pm CBSSN Fiorentina vs Frosinone Italy
2:45 pm telemundo/Peacock Juventus (McKinney) vs Parma
3:30 pm ESPN+ Sevilla vs Atletico Madrid
4:30 pm Apple Seattle Sounders vs Chicago Fire
6:30 pm Ion KC Current vs NC Courage NWSL
7:30 pm Apple NY Red Bulls vs Philly Union (Sullivan)
7:30 pm Apple Cincy vs Nashville SC
7:30 pm Apple NY Red Bulls vs Chicago Fire
7:30 pm Apple NE vs Columbus Crew
8:45 pm Ion Denver (Leaps) vs Chicago Stars NWSL
9:30 pm Apple Colorado Rapids vs Salt Lake City
10:30 pm Apple Portland vs Austin
10 pm ESPN+ Indy 11 @ San Antonio
Sun, Aug 30
9 am NBCSN Chelsea vs Brighton
9 am USA Leads (Aaronson) vs Brentford
9 am Peacock Sunderland vs Fulham (Robinson)
11 am ESPND+ Real MAdrid vs Malaga
11:30 am USA Man United vs Ipswich Town
11:30 am Ausburg vs Schalke
12:30 pm CBSSN Napoli vs Como Italy
4 pm ESPN2 Washington Spirit (Rodman) vs Bay FC
2:45 pm Para+ Lazio vs Genoa
2:45 pm beIN Monaco vs Mareseille (Weah)
4 pm ESPN2 Washington Spirit (Rodman) vs Bay FC
4:30 pm Apple New England vs NYCFC
6 pm CBSSN Bay FC vs Houston Dash
7 pm Apple St Louis vs Dallas MLS
7 pm Roku Seattle Reign vs Houston Dash NWSL
Mon, Aug 31
12:30 pm Para+ Lecce vs Roma
3 pm USA Aston Villa vs Arsenal
3:30 pm ESPND+ Barcelona vs Rayo Vallecano
8 pm CBSSN Boston Legacy vs Angel City (Thompson) NWSL
Sat, Sept 26
4:30 pm TNT/HBO USMNT vs Peru Orlando
Tues, Sept 29
8 pm TNT/HBO USMNT vs Chile St Louis
Sat, Oct 3
8 pm?? TNT/HBO USMNT vs Mexico Glendale
Tues, Oct 6
8 pm TNT/HBO USMNT vs Canada Minn
Sat, Oct 10
8 pm TNT. HBO USWNT vs Spain DC
Tues, Oct 13
7 pm TNT, HBO USWNT vs Spain Philly
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USMNT weekend viewing guide: Full send
The Bundesliga is back, with some changes — by jcksnftsn Aug 28, 2026, 12:53 PM EDT
The Bundesliga joins the fray this weekend so there is a full slate and it starts with a bang on Friday with two good matches for USMNT eager fans, and the potential for a sighting in Spain as well. The restart of the Bundesliga also brings a major change to viewing habits, with those matches shifting from the ESPN platform to a combination of Peacock (for Spanish language broadcasts) and Fandango which is apparently being offered in English for free in many cases. No longer behind the ESPN paywall the Bundesliga matches should be more accessible but perhaps a little harder to find, this is going to take some getting used to. Regardless, it’s a very full weekend of action and here’s what we’re watching:
Friday
AC Milan v Venezia — 2:45p on Paramount+: Start off the weekend with some American on American action in Italy on Friday afternoon as a pair of American’s in Milan host Venezia and Gianluca Bussio. Christian Pulisic did not make it off the bench last weekend as he continues to recover from his injury sustained during the World Cup but Yunus Musah started and went 90’ as he is apparently rebounding quickly at Milan after a rough 2025-26 season for the young midfielder. AC Milan opened their season with a 2-1 win over Torino and will now face Venezia and Busio who fell 2-0 to Lecce in their return to Serie A. Busio played the full 90 and captained the Venezia squad.
Crystal Palace v Manchester City — 3p on USA Network: Chris Richards went 90’ last Saturday as Crystal Palace fell to Everton 2-0. Zavier Gozo was not included in the squad and instead played with the Palace U21’s as he acclimates to the new club. Their opponent, Manchester City, opened with a 2-1 win over Bournemouth.
Alaves v Villarreal — 3:30p on ESPN+: Alex Freeman has had a meteoric rise with the USMNT but is still looking to make his breakthrough at Villarreal. The young right-back was an unused substitute for Villarreal last weekend as they drew with Atletico Madrid 2-2, after seeing just two minutes in the teams opening draw with Racing.
Saturday
Middlesbrough v West Brom — 7:30a on Paramount+: The Boro boys keep growing as Rokas Pukstas has joined Aidan Morris, Max Arfsten, and Sebastian Berhalter in the Championship. The group fell 2-1 to Blackburn last weekend with Morris, Berhalter, and Arfsten all starting though they did bounce back midweek in EFL Cup action with a 3-1 win over third tier side Doncaster.
RB Leipzig v Borussia Mönchengladbach — 9:30a on Peacock and Fandango: Joe Scally is apparently on the outs at Borussia Monchengladbach as he’s been instructed by the club to find a new home. Given the current state it seems pretty unlikely that Scally will see the field for Gladbach on Saturday, the end of an era.
Elversberg v Bayer Leverkusen — 9:30a on Peacock and Fandango: Malik Tillman and Bayer Leverkusen will start their Bundesliga campaign against newly promoted Elversberg on Saturday morning. Tillman did play 90’ last weekend in Leverkusen’s 4-0 win over Wehen Wiesbaden in the first round of dfb Pokal action. Cole Campbell transferred to Elversberg over the summer and played 90’ in the team’s Pokal win over MSV Duisburg last weekend.
Bournemouth v Everton — 10:00a on Peacock: There have been some rumors quietly swirling around a possible Tyler Adams move ahead of the transfer window closing on Tuesday and he came off the bench to play 15’ in Bournemouth’s 2-1 loss to Man City. Bournemouth had take a first half lead and both goals came after Adams had taken the field which isn’t a great look. The team will look to rebound on Saturday when they face an Everton side that started their season with a win.
Celtic v Falkirk — 10:00a on Paramount+: Auston Trusty and Cameron Carter-Vickers were unfortunately both part of Celtic’s awful collapse against George Bello and LASK in Champions League qualifying midweek. Celtic had scored twenty minutes in to go up 4-0 on aggregate in the home-and-away fixture but proceeded to give up five unanswered goals and crash out of the competition. They will look to rebound this weekend in Scottish league play as they host Falkirk.
Strasbourg v Lens — 11:15a on beIN SPORTS: Gio Reyna saw 21’ off the bench in his first competitive match with Strasbourg, a 4-0 loss to Tim Weah captained Marseille. Strasbourg was already down 2-0 when Reyna was introduced but he was unable to turn the tide. The team will have their home opener this weekend as they host as Lens side that opened with a 5-2 win over Auxerre.
Brest v Toulouse — 2:45p on beIN SPORTS: Mark McKenzie will remain with Toulouse until the January transfer window and was in the starting lineup and playing 90’ last weekend against Lyon. Toulouse will travel to Brest this weekend.
Lyon v Le Havre — 2:45p on beIN SPORTS: Tanner Tessmann may be on the move from Lyon as there have been some rumors of the team cashing in amidst financial struggles that were exacerbated when the team failed to qualify for Champions League, falling 2-1 at home to Fenerbahce. Tessmann started the match and was subbed out midway through the second half with his team looking for an equalizer. Tessmann only played 10’ in last weekend’s win over Toulouse as the team rotated heavily to prepare for the midweek match with Fenerbahce.
Juventus v Parma — 2:45p on Paramount+: Weston McKennie started and went 90’ in Juve’s 1-0 win over Frosinone but has been ruled out this weekend with fatigue and won’t be on the field for his teams home opener.
Sevilla v Atlético Madrid — 3:30p on ESPN+: Johnny Cardoso has been on the bench for Atletico Madrid’s first two matches of the season, a 2-0 win over Malaga and a 2-2 draw with Villarreal. Atleti hit the road for the first time this season, travelling to take on a Sevilla side that have won their first two matches of the season.
Seattle Sounders v Chicago Fire — 4:30p on Apple TV: Cristian Roldan, Chris Brady
New York Red Bulls v Philadelphia Union — 7:30p on Apple TV: Julian Hall, Adri Mehmeti, Ethan Horvath, Quinn and Cavan Sullivan
Toronto FC v NYCFC — 7:30p on Apple TV: Matt Freese
Charlotte FC v Atlanta United — 7:30p on Apple TV: Tim Ream
Nashville SC v FC Cincinnati — 8:30p on Apple TV: Roman Celentano
Colorado Rapids v Real Salt Lake — 9:30p on Apple TV: Diego Luna
MLS Season
- Seattle Sounders v Chicago Fire — 4:30p on Apple TV: Cristian Roldan, Chris Brady
- New York Red Bulls v Philadelphia Union — 7:30p on Apple TV: Julian Hall, Adri Mehmeti, and Ethan Horvath for NYRB, Quinn and Cavan Sullivan for Philadelphia.
- Toronto FC v NYCFC — 7:30p on Apple TV: Matt Freese
- Charlotte FC v Atlanta United — 7:30p on Apple TV: Tim Ream
- Nashville SC v FC Cincinnati — 8:30p on Apple TV: Roman Celentano and Miles Robinson
- Colorado Rapids v Real Salt Lake — 9:30p on Apple TV: Diego Luna
Sunday
PSV v Utrecht — 6:15a on ESPN+: Ricardo Pepi and Sergiño Dest both scored last weekend in PSV’s 5-1 win over FC Groningen. This weekend they will host Utrecht where Kevin Paredes is apparently yet again dealing with significant injury concerns after coming off with a leg injury against Sparta Rotterdam last weekend.
Leeds United v Brentford — 9:00a on USA Network/Telemundo: Brenden Aaronson saw 23’ off the bench in Leeds 2-0 EFL Cup win over Nottingham Forest midweek and started against the same Forest team last weekend as Leeds opened their EPL season with a 1-0 win.
Sunderland v Fulham — 9:00a on Peacock: Antonee Robinson started Fulham’s EPL opener on Monday, a 3-2 home loss to Chelsea but was not included in the midweek squad as the team defeated AFC Wimbledon 3-0 in EFL Cup action. The team will travel to newly promoted Sunderland on Sunday.
Rennes v Le Mans — 11:15a on beIN SPORTS: Bryan Reynolds moved from Westerlo to Stade Rennais this summer and Reynolds saw 2’ off the bench in the teams opening match, a 2-2 draw with PSG. Rennes will now host newly promoted Le Mans who opened their season with 2-2 draw with Brest.
Augsburg v Schalke — 11:30a on Fandango: Noahkai Banks started and went 90’ in Augsburg’s 2-0 Pokal win over Energie Cottbus. Banks saw over 1,700 minutes in the Bundesliga last season as a 19-year-old centerback but appeared just once in the teams last eight matches. The team will open their Bundesliga season by hosting Schalke who have spent the last three seasons in 2 Bundesliga.
Monaco v Marseille — 2:45p on beIN SPORTS: Folarin Balogun is also a name to watch in the transfer rumors and he has not appeared in any of Monaco’s first three matches (across all competitions) to start the season. Unfortunately, that will probably deprive USMTN fans of another opportunity to watch American’s face off head-to-head as Monaco are hosting Tim Weah and Marseille on Sunday afternoon.
MLS Season Pass Matches:
- Columbus Crew v New England Revolution — 4:30p on Apple TV: Patrick Schulte v Matt Turner
NWSL
NWSL Has added Roku Channel as a Partner to replace Victory+. Many Sunday night games including the Seattle Reign vs Houston Dash this Sunday at 7 pm. Two-time World Cup Champion with the USWNT and nutmeg queen Tobin Heath (Tobinyo) officially retired from pro soccer after signing a one-day contract with the Portland Thorns, and the club celebrated her legendary career last Saturday. Still the most skilled ballhandler the US has ever had. highlights
2026 ISCA Boys & Girls Week One HS Soccer Rankings
3A ISCA Girls Poll
- Hamilton Southeastern
- Homestead
- Carmel
- Center Grove
- Westfield
- Cathedral
- Noblesville
- Zionsville
- Crown Point
- Lawrenceburg
2A ISCA High School Boys Soccer Poll 8/24/2026
- Guerin Catholic
- Bishop Noll
- Mishawaka Marian
- Park Tudor
- Illiana Christian
- Covenant Christian (Indpls)
- Bishop Luers
- Leo
- Speedway
US Men
‘That lifelong dream of mine is done’: USMNT’s Richards puts World Cup heartbreak behind him
Caught World Cup fever? Here’s how to follow USMNT stars’ club careers
Pulisic, Friedel, Dempsey: Best Premier League careers in USMNT history
USMNT midweek roundup – Celtic collapse
European notebook: Adeniran’s huge day, Scally & Pukstas in the window, Paredes injured, & more
Two years from LA2028, what could a U.S. Olympic team look like?
FIFA releases 2027 Women’s World Cup match schedule
‘Upsetting’: U.S. missing star names for U20 WWC
Germany Bundesliga Season Preview
Season preview: Bayern’s dominance overshadows Bundesliga on Klopp’s return as Germany coach
Bundesliga 2026/27 guide: In-depth team previews ahead …
Bundesliga 2026/27 Tactical Previews | The full 18-club …
Bundesliga Preview And Predictions For The 2026/27 …
2 must-watch games in the Bundesliga this weekend
MLS & NWSL
Chicago, Real Salt Lake & Columbus all lost this week as La Liga teams dominated the Leagues Cup. Several of MLS’s top young talents will step into the spotlight at Sports Illustrated Stadium on Saturday night as Red Bull New York host their I-95 rivals the Philadelphia Union, headlined by rising homegrown stars Cavan Sullivan, Neil Pierre, Julian Hall and Adri Mehmeti (7:30 pm ET | Apple TV).
Game of the Week Features future US Stars
Inter Miami name Kily González head coach
The Legacy has found a home, as Boston’s NWSL club announced it will play all 2027 home matches at Centreville Bank Stadium in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. Ongoing delays have derailed a permanent move to Boston’s White Stadium, with the expansion team now targeting a 2028 debut.“We are deeply grateful to our fans, partners, the City of Boston, and Boston Public Schools for believing in this vision and helping us move it forward,” Legacy controlling owner Jennifer Epstein said. (See full release)
Goalkeeping
US GK Battle – Columbus Crew v New England Revolution — 4:30p on Apple TV: Patrick Schulte v Matt Turner
Reffing
Delay of Restart throw-in
2 game Ban for Deception in Championship
Caught World Cup fever? Here’s how to follow USMNT stars’ club careers
Cesar HernandezAug 20, 2026, 07:06 AM ET
Did you catch soccer fever over the summer and want to know what’s next for American stars after the FIFA World Cup?With international duties now behind them, many of the top names from the U.S. men’s national team will now set their sights on a new challenge: the 2026-27 club season. Settled among the top leagues in Europe, a growing list of Americans will continue to develop and fine tune their skills within the rosters of elite clubs from abroad. And with more and more names making the move to Europe, tracking them all can at times feel, well, overwhelming for even die-hard supporters of the beautiful game. With that in mind, we’ve got you covered with ESPN’s guide to following USMNT stars in their 2026-27 club seasons.
Of course, tracking every American in the top European leagues would be far too long of a list, so to keep things simple, we’ve narrowed it down to 10 noteworthy players that we believe you should be following. In no particular order, let’s dive in.
Christian Pulisic | Attacker | AC Milan | Serie A
How did his World Cup go?
It was fair-to-middling. Amid flashes of brilliance, he also failed to provide consistent performances, while dealing with injuries. Tasked with taking charge of the attack through the left flank, but providing no goals and one assist, Pulisic himself admitted feeling “disappointed” after the round-of-16 exit.
How does he fit into his club’s setup?
Whether he’s an attacking midfielder, winger or a wide forward, Pulisic provides plenty of work in the opposition’s half. As a chance creator and goal scorer, the 27-year-old relies on his dribbling, pace and vision to provide game-changing moments. At his best, he is capable of being one of the top players for his club and one of the standouts in Serie A.
What to know about his club
Pedigree and status comes to mind when thinking about the 126-year-old club with 19 Serie A titles and seven European Cup/Champions League trophies. Despite the fact that they’re in a transitional era with new coach Ruben Amorim, expectations will remain high as they chase a spot in Italy’s top four, which would secure a place in next season’s UEFA Champions League. Deep runs in both the Coppa Italia and UEFA Europa League will also be expected.
One big question: Will Pulisic stay fit?
He doesn’t have the best record when it comes to staying healthy. Last season, Pulisic missed seven matches through injury, which limited him to just 1,609 minutes — down roughly a third compared to his previous two seasons in Italy. At the World Cup, the injury setbacks continued, leading to him being a doubt for Sunday’s season opener at Torino. Pulisic has the tools to shine, but that’s all dependent on how much time he spends on the pitch.
Where can you watch him play?
Serie A: CBS, Paramount+
UEFA Europa League: CBS, Paramount+
Coppa Italia: CBS, Paramount+
Folarin Balogun | Forward | AS Monaco | Ligue 1
How did his World Cup go?
If we’re avoiding the elephant in the room of what happened off the field that was out of his control, Balogun had a successful run in the World Cup. Very few complaints about the striker, who stepped up with three goals across four appearances. A constant threat in the attack, he did earn a red card that initially left him off the U.S.’s final game, although it’s debatable whether that was the correct decision from the referee.
How does he fit into his club’s setup?
You’ll see similar performances at club level to the ones we watched over the summer. Much more than just a goal scorer, the 25-year-old is clever with his sprints and connects well with the rest of the front line. And as seen with the USMNT, he’s also a clinical finisher. Last season he averaged a goal every 75 minutes, scoring 13 times.
What to know about his club
It’s a rebuild/redemption season for Monaco with new manager Filipe Luís leading a side that had an underwhelming finish in 2025-26. Looking at a team that gave up 54 goals across 34 games, Filipe Luís will first have to fix defensive issues that hampered progress. That said, we’ll see how many key players they hold onto in the transfer window.
One big question: Will he stay at Monaco?
Of the players who are potentially on the move this transfer window, none may be as important to Monaco than Balogun. Thanks to a positive World Cup and 2025-26 season, there’s been interest from clubs in France, England and Spain, with Tottenham Hotspur mooted as a possible landing spot.
Where can you watch him play?
Ligue 1: beIN Sports
Coupe de France: Fox
UEFA Conference League: CBS, Paramount+
Weston McKennie | Midfielder | Juventus | Serie A
How did his World Cup go?
With five World Cup starts under his belt this summer, there’s no denying that McKennie is one of the more pivotal pieces of the USMNT puzzle. Like most others on this list, he’ll get docked points for his performance against Belgium, but the midfielder thrived with his chance creation and endless roaming.
How does he fit into his club’s setup?
Where doesn’t he? Able to play as a competent wingback, anywhere in the midfield, and even as a false nine if needed, Juventus have plugged McKennie into countless positions. Well rounded and with excellent stamina, he’ll be a valuable utility option in the starting XI.
What to know about his club
As the most successful side in Italy, becoming a title contender once again will be the bare minimum for the team that finished in sixth last season. Like Milan, there will also be an expectation to make deep runs in both the Europa League and Coppa Italia. A handful of reinforcements, such as the return of Randal Kolo Muani, could help.
One big question: Where will he play most often?
This is less of a worry and more genuine curiosity about the player who would start as a false nine at the top of the attack one game, move to fullback in the next, and would then switch to a midfield spot in the heart of the XI. Keep an eye on the highly versatile player.
Where can you watch him play?
Serie A: CBS, Paramount+
UEFA Europa League: CBS, Paramount+
Coppa Italia: CBS, Paramount+
Gio Reyna | Midfielder | Strasbourg | Ligue 1
How did his World Cup go?
With the caveat that he went into the summer as something of a surprise roster addition due to having very few starts at club level, the World Cup was a small step forward. He got a goal in the opener and earned 76 minutes vs. Türkiye, which marks the most he has played in any match in all of 2026 for club or country.
How does he fit into his club’s setup?
Transferred to Strasbourg this summer, we’ll have to wait and see what his exact role will be, although he played 45 minutes of a friendly vs. Newcastle United in an advanced role. The good news for the attacking midfielder? He earned an assist for the equalizer in the 1-1 draw.
What to know about his club
Much like sister club Chelsea under the BlueCo umbrella, Strasbourg aim to qualify for European competition with a very young roster. In the match against Newcastle, for example, the average age of the starting XI was 22.5. Reyna, 23, fits neatly into this youthful focus.
One big question: Can he finally become a starter for his club?
Once viewed as the most promising American player of his generation, Reyna’s stock has plummeted in recent years after being unable to cement a starting role. Looking at his last two seasons in the Bundesliga, the midfielder had just seven starts.
Where can you watch him play?
Ligue 1: beIN Sports
Coupe de France: Fox
Chris Richards | Defender | Crystal Palace | Premier League
How did his World Cup go?
Defensive solidity? Check. Crucial distributor from the back? Check. Excellent in the air? Check that one off as well. A positive World Cup run for the Alabama native who once again highlighted why he’s the top central defender in the program.
How does he fit into his club’s setup?
Playing in the center of a three-man back line or just off to the right, Richards shares similar responsibilities at club level when it comes to his accurate distribution going forward. He’s just as much of a rock when it comes to his defensive interventions, and can also occasionally push forward to help cover the midfield.
What to know about his club
Building off their historic Conference League title last season, Crystal Palace will aim for midtable stability in the Premier League in 2026-17 while also finding a way to make some noise in the Europa League. Whether they can do so will come down to new coach Pierre Sage.
One big question: Can he level up once again?
Moving to the Premier League has done wonders for the player who has risen to be the top central defender in the American player pool, but can he reach another gear? Only 26, he could add to his game even further if he can improve some of his defensive awareness and long passes.
Where can you watch him play?
Premier League: NBC, USA, Peacock
FA Cup: ESPN
Carabao Cup: CBS, Paramount+
UEFA Europa League: CBS, Paramount+
Alex Freeman | Defender | Villarreal | LaLiga
How did his World Cup go?
From the U.S. roster, Freeman was the breakout star. Playing as a right back and right-sided central defender, the 22-year-old from Florida rose to the occasion with a goal, an assist and a long list of interventions in the backline.
How does he fit into his club’s setup?
With Villarreal, the Orlando City academy graduate is still a substitute option at right back. Arriving in Spain in January, and still playing in MLS‘ reserve league just two seasons ago, fans might have to be patient when it comes to him earning a starting role in one the best leagues in the world.
What to know about his club
After lifting their expectations last season with a third-place finish, there’s a lot of intrigue and excitement about what Villarreal can do in both LaLiga and also the Champions League. Leading them on the sidelines will be new coach Iñigo Pérez, who could implement a more aggressive style of play.
One big question: Will his development continue at breakneck speed?
It’s worth reiterating just how quickly Freeman has gone from MLS academy prospect to World Cup starter. Two years ago, he was still earning minutes in MLS’ reserve league and was nowhere on the USMNT radar. Within a matter of months he then became one of the best players in MLS, a go-to call-up for the USMNT and now a LaLiga player. Perhaps that starting role with Villarreal won’t be too far out of reach.
Where can you watch him play?
La Liga: ESPN
Copa del Rey: ESPN
UEFA Champions League: CBS, Paramount+
Tyler Adams | Midfielder | AFC Bournemouth | Premier League
How did his World Cup go?
A solid run for the central midfielder who contributed to both the defense and attack with his coverage in the center of the pitch and his distribution. Few players in the USMNT roster can match his elite combo of aggression and stamina.
How does he fit into his club’s setup?
Playing as a defensive midfielder for club and country, there aren’t any major differences between the way that Adams performs his duty with the USMNT and Bournemouth. Nonetheless, while he is used as an additional defensive shield within the USMNT midfield, Adams has been known to move into higher areas for Bournemouth in order to win back the ball.
What to know about his club
With an impressive sixth-place finish last season, Bournemouth qualified for a European competition for the first time in their history. The goal in 2026-27 will be to maintain at least a midtable position in the Premier League, while also looking competitive in their Europa League debut. Part of their evolution means adapting to new coach Marco Rose, and some upgrades to their stadium.
One big question: Can he avoid another major injury?
Whether Adams can stay fit for a full season is another worry for USMNT fans. Over the last few years, issues ranging from a hamstring problem, back ailment and sprained left MCL have hindered regular playing time and caused him to sit out for stretches of time. We’ll see if he can avoid another significant knock in 2026-27.
Where can you watch him play?
Premier League: NBC, USA, Peacock
FA Cup: ESPN
Carabao Cup: CBS, Paramount+
UEFA Europa League: CBS, Paramount+
Sergiño Dest | Defender | PSV Eindhoven | Eredivisie
How did his World Cup go?
A hit-or-miss tournament for the player who oscillated between a winger with defensive duties and a fullback with winger tendencies. Perfectly illustrated in the knockout round, he stepped up in the USMNT’s round-of-32 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina, but was then substituted out at halftime in the next match vs Belgium.
How does he fit into his club’s setup?
It isn’t as a winger, but considering how far up Dest plays as fullback for PSV, he’s someone who takes up much of the attacking space on the flanks (typically on the right) whenever he’s on the field. It’s entertaining yet chaotic with how he plays, and it also leads to some jeopardy with the space he leaves open behind.
What to know about his club
Second all time in Eredivisie championships and with three consecutive league titles in hand, another domestic trophy is anticipated in 2026-27 for Dest and fellow American Ricardo Pepi at PSV. The USMNT duo will also be expected to make a splash in the Champions League, but a title chase there is far too difficult.
One big question: Can he refine his defensive game?
At the peak of his abilities, Dest, 25, is a captivating watch with his daring runs and risky sprints forward, but there’s a reason as to why Barcelona moved on and he didn’t stick at AC Milan. His defensive decision-making and scanning leave much to be desired, and if he wants to hold his starting spot with the national team, he needs to improve his backline work.
Where can you watch him play?
Eredivisie: ESPN
KNVB Cup: ESPN
UEFA Champions League: CBS, Paramount+
Antonee Robinson | Defender | Fulham | Premier League
How did his World Cup go?
A decent yet not remarkable showing at the World Cup. As the go-to left back, he was imposing against Australia and made his mark in the knockout match against Bosnia-Herzegovina, but also wasn’t as impactful as he should have been against Belgium. Didn’t lose his starting role, but it’s not guaranteed going forward.
How does he fit into his club’s setup?
Now a well-established member of the Fulham squad, Robinson should hold onto his spot as the high-flying accelerator on the left flank that can provide some whipped crosses and combative efforts in defense. At 29, he’s likely already fulfilled his potential, and with his history of injury issues, he may have hit his ceiling.
What to know about his club
Can new coach Álvaro Arbeloa take Fulham from midtable regulars to fighting for spots in European competitions? Assuming that they won’t be fighting for the league title, supporters will be more eager to watch Fulham stepping up in domestic competitions like the FA Cup and EFL Cup.
One big question: Will he ever get a big transfer?
Manchester United are reportedly considering a move, and in the past, Liverpool, among others, have had an interest in the pacy fullback. With Fulham since 2020, and now almost 30 years old, it feels as if he were to make a leap to a bigger club, it would be in the near future.
Where can you watch him play?
Premier League: NBC, USA, Peacock
FA Cup: ESPN
Carabao Cup: CBS, Paramount+
Malik Tillman | Midfielder | Bayer Leverkusen | Bundesliga
How did his World Cup go?
Tillman earned not just one, but two, highlight-reel moments with a couple of free-kick goals in the knockout round. The 24-year-old also provided an assist in the tournament opener vs. Paraguay. Scrappy with winning the ball back but also creative with his chance creation, the attacking midfielder had a commendable World Cup run.
How does he fit into his club’s setup?
He might be asking himself the same thing after drifting in and out of the starting XI in 2025-26. Following his notable appearances at the World Cup, he’ll hope to gain a boost in the start to the new season and to settle himself into the XI.
What to know about his club
After a historic Bundesliga title in the 2023-24 season, Bayer Leverkusen have slowly slumped down the standings and fell to sixth in 2025-26. With Carles Martínez Novell as the new coach, the club will aim to move back into the title-contender conversation and to also make deep runs in the DFB-Pokal and Europa League.
One big question: Will Tillman remain in Leverkusen?
As mentioned earlier, Tillman wasn’t able to establish a starting role with Leverkusen, leading to comments from the player that have noted that he’s open to a move. If he’s not immediately utilized in the first couple of games, don’t be surprised if he’s transferred this summer.
Where can you watch him play?
Bundesliga: USA, Fandango
DFB-Pokal: TBC
UEFA Europa League: CBS, Paramount+
U.S. Soccer nears takeover of U.S. Youth Soccer. This is what it means for the sport’s future
By Henry Bushnell The Athletic
Aug. 28, 2026 Updated 11:33 am EDT
U.S. Soccer is nearing a takeover of the U.S. Youth Soccer Association, a move that some view as a significant step toward reform across the sport’s American landscape.
At a momentous meeting Saturday in Dallas, members of USYS, the largest youth sports organization in the United States, will vote on a bylaw amendment that would essentially hand control of their organization over to the U.S. Soccer Federation. A dozen people close to the matter, including several members who will vote, told The Athletic over the past two weeks that they expect the amendment to pass comfortably.
It will allow U.S. Soccer, the sport’s national governing body, to fully absorb USYS by 2028 and is part of the federation’s years-long effort to design a more coherent, less fractured youth system.
It will not unwind the “pay-to-play” model, nor will this alone make soccer significantly cheaper, multiple sources cautioned — but many believe it will improve grassroots soccer and empower U.S. Soccer to push further changes. (Most sources spoke anonymously because they were not authorized to discuss the reform process publicly.)
USYS, a 52-year-old national association, boasts 2.5 million registered players and 54 individual state associations. Collectively, they govern large swaths of recreational youth soccer across the country. Over the past two decades, as the youth sports industry boomed, they lost hundreds of thousands of teenagers to US Club Soccer and competitive national leagues. But for many young kids — and still for some teens — USYS-affiliated clubs, leagues and programs are gateways to the game.
Much of that programming is administered by the state associations. They are the ones who will vote on Saturday to eventually dissolve the national association and work directly with U.S. Soccer. U.S. Soccer has told the state associations that it plans to empower them as “local arms” of a coordinated strategy, but the specifics of that strategy and the so-called “future state” of youth soccer in America remain unclear.
So, although the vote feels consequential, the consequences are murky. And they’ll depend on what comes next.
Why is this happening?
For most of its 113-year history, the U.S. Soccer Federation largely ignored youth soccer. In the 1960s and ’70s, separate organizations, such as USYS, sprang up to govern clubs and leagues for children. The federation mostly let them run themselves — and allowed any entrepreneurial challenger to compete with them.
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The result was a “fractured” or “fragmented” landscape that confuses parents, exacerbates costs, hinders player development, and stunts the growth of the sport.
So, a few years ago, U.S. Soccer decided it was time for change.
The federation launched an “ecosystem review” in 2023, hired more staff to build relationships with youth soccer leaders, and spent months simply trying to understand the landscape. After analyzing it, state associations were identified as important, well-meaning organizations that served localized soccer, but with two core problems.
First, they didn’t serve all soccer. Because of their affiliation with USYS, they’d been dragged into competition with US Club and other organizations. They therefore spent time and resources trying to keep players within the USYS orbit — because player registration fees are central to their business models — rather than spending that time and those resources working with, say, local governments to build fields or get soccer programming into underserved communities. (They do some of that, but they could do more.)
Second, some (not all) were inefficient and struggling financially.
The solution to both, U.S. Soccer decided, was to eliminate USYS and create a direct line to the state associations. They will essentially be repurposed, and perhaps restructured, as local executors of U.S. Soccer’s broader vision for growing the game. And with the federation in control, there could be a centralized player registration system that gives U.S. Soccer better access to millions of boys and girls who play the sport.
Will this make soccer less expensive?
In theory, the new structure could make soccer somewhat more accessible at grassroots levels if U.S. Soccer supports the state associations. It could do this by streamlining administrative tasks (thereby lowering expenses or allowing the state associations to coordinate more low-cost programming) or by providing direct financial support — perhaps via sponsors and philanthropists who can now reach all 50 states with a single donation.ut the truly prohibitive costs hit families in the pre-teen and teen years, and this takeover won’t make it much more affordable for them.
At those “competitive” and “pre-professional” levels — as U.S. Soccer defines them — there is a dizzying web of clubs and leagues that, in exchange for (supposedly) better coaching and exposure, charge families thousands of dollars. They also force kids to drive or fly past similarly skilled kids for tournaments or exclusive “showcase” events, or even for standard league games, simply because those other kids belong to a rival league or acronym. That travel adds thousands of dollars — and dozens or hundreds of hours — to the overall cost.
To lower it, and align the whole system, U.S. Soccer must get a variety of other organizations — including the Elite Clubs National League (ECNL), Girls Academy (GA) and Major League Soccer (MLS, which runs MLS Next, the top academy circuit for teenage boys) — on board with a plan that stretches far beyond USYS.
What is U.S. Soccer’s broader vision or plan?
The USYS takeover, multiple sources said, is merely one piece of a puzzle. U.S. Soccer is trying to re-architect the competitive structure of youth soccer across the country. It wants “a more connected system that is easier to navigate, more accessible, and better aligned around the needs of players and participants.”
The question that remains unanswered is how to do that.
The utopia is a singular pyramid that is clearly defined and filters the most talented players up to the top levels. But that’s probably unrealistic, because this is America — a free market. Even if U.S. Soccer took over every existing league and organization and molded them into one, new ones could form to challenge it. U.S. Soccer could try to stop them, but that would surely lead to legal battles. It could become an expensive game of whack-a-mole.
The more realistic outcome, which would still take years to reach, is some sort of tiered system comprising multiple organizations and leagues, with standards underpinning each tier — standards that a league or club must uphold to retain a certain desirable designation. The designations would ease parental confusion, and the standards would help ensure the quality of programming and environments. The tricky part, again, is getting all the leagues that would be involved, such as the ECNL and GA, to agree on what those standards should be. (Last decade, when U.S. Soccer pushed standards within its Development Academy, many clubs resisted.)
Ideally, there would also be more inter-league games, or perhaps a merger of more competitions — and therefore less travel. Speaking to The Athletic in July, U.S. Soccer chief operating officer Dan Helfrich envisioned a future where “the structure of competitive soccer between the ages of 11 and 15 has a different, more joined-up, more local and regional organization to it.” At the very top tier, there will inevitably be more travel because “best against best” is a core tenet of elite player development. But below that top tier, much of it could be alleviated by common sense (rather than economic sense) and cooperation.
U.S. Soccer COO Dan Helfrich at April’s SheBelieves Summit in Seattle, WashingtonAli Gradischer/USSF/Getty Images
So, the federation is negotiating and working with entities such as US Club (which sanctions the ECNL and other regional and national leagues). They’ve all been hesitant to reveal their direction of travel until they know exactly where they’re going and how to get there. But U.S. Soccer, in a document published back in early June, said it would release “a broader vision for the future of the game … later this summer.” Helfrich said in mid-July that a draft would be circulated for feedback, and ultimately published, “in the next few months.” There is widespread hope that the fall will bring more clarity.What You Should Read Next
A ‘broken’ system, nascent culture: Why the U.S. has never had a world-class men’s soccer starThe USMNT has featured very talented players over the years, but none occupying the rarefied air of the true global elite. Why not?
Will U.S. Soccer take over other youth organizations?
Potentially, but not necessarily.
The federation is talking with US Club, the American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) and other youth soccer entities. But each serves a distinct role and has a distinct structure. The purpose and process of U.S. Soccer taking control, therefore, varies from one to the next.
Among people close to the talks, there is a general expectation that U.S. Soccer will at least deepen its ties with some of those organizations over the coming year. It is already working closely with US Club under the terms of a January agreement, which saw U.S. Soccer “enter into a new strategic partnership” with the for-profit company that managed US Club’s business. But US Club’s board of directors and members still have full decision-making power and control over their strategic direction.
What exactly will happen to U.S. Youth Soccer and its competitions?
The bylaw amendment, which has been thoroughly revised over the past few months, would make U.S. Soccer the sole voting member of USYS. Over the next two years, USYS would gradually dissolve into U.S. Soccer.
There is complicated legalese related to the roughly $15 million that USYS holds in reserves, but much or all of it will ultimately be paid out to the state associations, according to people familiar with the matter.What You Should Read Next
U.S. soccer’s ‘pay-to-play’ problem: The lightning-rod issue explained in a World Cup contextUSMNT’s World Cup ouster has plenty focused on the country’s youth development system, a complex —and costly — element in a bigger picture
U.S. Soccer will then direct the state associations and take control of USYS competitions, including the President’s Cup (a July national championship) and the Olympic Development Program (ODP).
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ODP, once the premier pipeline to college and pro soccer, has lost relevance throughout the 21st century as academies and national leagues have proliferated. But U.S. Soccer could reinvent it as a hub for talent identification locally or push it in another direction.
Whatever the vision, that program and others will likely change, but the “how” remains to be determined.
What exactly will happen to the state associations?
None of this will happen instantly. Throughout the fall, and likely beyond, state associations will continue doing what they’ve always done — registering players, safeguarding all participants, assigning referees, coordinating local programs.
But eventually, after extensive discussions with U.S. Soccer, they will evolve. They will probably consolidate. There are currently 54 (two each in California, Texas, New York and Pennsylvania); there will likely be fewer in the not-too-distant future, multiple people involved in discussions said. Their staffing models will change, and some services will be run regionally or nationally, though having some “boots on the ground” will remain critical. The changes will vary from state to state because each has a different model and different needs.
Whether they’ll remain separate non-profit entities or become local U.S. Soccer offices is not yet known.
Will they definitely vote in favor of all these changes?
All that uncertainty is, to some state leaders, the scary part. Some are stressed and anxious. In many ways, they don’t fully know what they’re voting for. Some remain skeptical of U.S. Soccer, of its talks with the USYS board of directors that led to this, and of its relationship with US Club. Some worry that they and their colleagues won’t have jobs once this new structure materializes.
But there is unequivocal confidence that enough will vote in favor of the amendment on Saturday, for two main reasons. One: Even if it’s voted down, U.S. Soccer could still press ahead with changes.
In that unlikely scenario, things would get messy — the supportive state associations might have to effectively secede from USYS and begin working solely with U.S. Soccer — but there’s a sense that change is inevitable.
“U.S. Soccer is the train, and it is pulling out of the station,” Jim Walker, the executive director of Georgia Soccer, told The Athletic. “And we can either get on board the train, or when the train leaves we’re left at the platform; and when the train gets to the next station, somebody else is gonna get on. I would much rather be a part of the solution to the obstacles that occur than be left standing on the platform and watching somebody else be part of the solution.”
The second reason is that throughout this years-long process, by listening and collaborating, U.S. Soccer has earned trust that it didn’t have before.
So, there is a willingness to venture into the unknown.
“It’s putting trust in U.S. Soccer,” Evan Dabby, the executive director of New Jersey Youth Soccer, told The Athletic, “to do what’s right to grow the game.”
Henry Bushnell is a senior writer for The Athletic covering soccer. He previously covered a variety of sports and events, including World Cups and Olympics, for Yahoo Sports. He is based in Washington, D.C.
Bill ConnellySep 19, 2025, 07:00 AM ET ESPNFC 
Borussia Dortmund go 4-2 up in the 86th minute. Job done, surely… (Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Ticket limits have become commonplace at major sporting events. (Carl De Souza / Getty Images)
Monaco’s head coach Adi Hutter (left) comforts Balogun as he leaves the pitch in Rennes (Jean-Francois Monier/AFP via Getty Images)
Fiorentina’s Luca Ranieri attempts to stop Pulisic (Giuseppe Maffia/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Tillman impressed against Sparta (Photo Prestige/Soccrates/Getty Images)
Westerlo’s Bryan Reynolds (Isosport/MB Media/Getty Images)
Pulisic has been a mainstay and captain of the USMNT (Katie Stratman / Imagn Images)
Steffen has not played for the U.S. since 2022 (Isaiah J. Downing / Imagn Images)
(Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
(David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
(Bill Barrett/ISI Photos/USSF/Getty Images for USSF)
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The Ole BallCoach 