Alex Freeman’s Remarkable Rise: From Orlando City to Villarreal

The first time Oscar Pareja, head coach of Orlando City, observed Alex Freeman on the field, he recognized a unique potential within him. Pareja believed that with the right opportunity, Freeman’s latent talent could be fully realized. The challenge lay in identifying the perfect moment to provide him with that chance.

“We were aware of his background,” Pareja shared with GOAL last summer. “We knew he possessed the physical prowess that indicated he could become a strong player. However, the key question was whether we could transform those physical attributes into exceptional footballing skills. Freeman exhibited a natural understanding of the game, especially in his combinations and decision-making. I’ve encountered many tall and physically imposing players, but few match his unique qualities.”

“His instinct to connect with teammates is remarkable,” he continued. “What stands out is how effortlessly he engages in offensive play. It’s a rare trait that I’ve seldom witnessed globally. This instinct isn’t a result of coaching; it’s an innate sensitivity to the attacking dynamics of the game.”

Throughout the previous year, American soccer fans witnessed Freeman’s development firsthand. Viewers in Orlando frequently noted his transformation from a youth prospect to arguably one of the top fullbacks in Major League Soccer (MLS). Supporters of the US Men’s National Team (USMNT) observed his evolution from a tentative newcomer to a confident player aspiring for a World Cup opportunity, fueled by his readiness to capitalize on every chance presented to him.

“I often tell people that the key to success in soccer is to embrace your opportunities,” Freeman remarked. “You never know when another will arise. My transition to Orlando could have gone awry, but it turned out well for me. This year represents another opportunity for growth. Every start and minute I played last season was about absorbing the experience and striving to excel, understanding that such opportunities may be fleeting.”

“This principle applies not only to club and national team situations but to life in general. If you don’t seize your opportunities, someone younger or faster may take them from you, leaving you behind. It really is that straightforward.”

Freeman’s persistence earned him a significant new opportunity: a move to one of the premier leagues worldwide, thousands of miles from home.

As January commenced, Freeman indicated his anticipation of remaining with Orlando, expressing a desire to contribute significantly to the club and use the MLS season as a platform to secure a place on the USMNT. He chose to remain focused, disregarding transfer speculations, which he felt were meant for others to manage.

Ultimately, the anticipated transfer materialized. By the end of January, Freeman signed with Villarreal, a transition that had been in the rumor mill for months. It was now a reality, with Freeman donning the club’s colors and engaging his Spanish-speaking fans on social media as he prepared for this new chapter.

However, the swift nature of the transfer posed challenges for all involved. Orlando faced the difficult decision of parting with a talented defender, but selling him during the final year of his contract was a strategic move. For Freeman, leaving the comfort of Orlando was undoubtedly challenging, given the supportive environment he had cultivated. Meanwhile, Villarreal was taking a calculated risk on a player of immense potential but limited high-level experience.

In the end, all parties concluded it was the opportune moment for this transition.

“Alex’s journey exemplifies the strength of our academy and the pathway we’ve established,” stated Ricardo Moreira, Orlando City’s General Manager and Sporting Director. “He demonstrated maturity and dedication at every level, evolving from a promising prospect to an MLS All-Star and one of the league’s top emerging talents. Witnessing his development has been deeply rewarding for us at the club. We are proud of all Alex has achieved here and wish him continued success as he embarks on this new phase of his professional career.”

Freeman consulted with USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino during the transfer process. With the World Cup looming, Pochettino’s counsel was invaluable for Freeman as he sought to ensure his inclusion in the national squad.

“He reached out to me to discuss my feelings about the potential move,” Freeman shared. “I told him to be authentic and consider what would be the best option for himself, his family, and those advising him. We, as coaches, must always support our players because many variables can affect such decisions. It’s crucial that players feel happy and confident about their choices, as they seek growth and improvement.”

Freeman’s competitive journey continues, now spanning across international borders. He is a shining example of what can be achieved when opportunities are embraced. His rapid ascent in 2025 brought him from relative obscurity to a player whose talents warranted a transfer to La Liga. Freeman is acutely aware of the delicate balance of success and failure.

“There’s no time to dwell on past successes,” he acknowledges. “The landscape can shift rapidly. A single dip in form might jeopardize a World Cup dream. If I fail to make an impact at Villarreal, someone else may outperform me and take their chance. This is the intense competition fostered by Pochettino, especially with the World Cup approaching.”

Freeman understands that external factors can also alter his trajectory. His breakout at Orlando City was precipitated by an injury that created an opportunity for him. He recognizes the unpredictability of sports; thus, being prepared is paramount.

“With such a vast player pool, the next few months are unpredictable. Injuries can affect anyone, as seen with Tyler Adams. It’s crucial to remain ready and consistent, particularly with the World Cup spots up for grabs.”

His MLS offseason was dedicated to that preparation. It involved maintaining the progress achieved throughout 2025 while also taking time to reflect on the transformations in his life.

“I used the offseason to appreciate all the moments I experienced,” Freeman remarked. “It was vital for me to reflect on everything I hadn’t been able to acknowledge earlier. Spending quality time with family and friends allowed me to truly realize my accomplishments.”

As 2025 concluded, Freeman had accrued 13 caps for the USMNT, been named an MLS All-Star, earned the Young Player of the Year accolade, and secured a spot on the Best XI. He has now become part of a dynamic wave of American players making their mark in Europe, paving the way for future generations.

This transformation has been profound for Freeman. Just a year ago, he was relatively unknown outside of Orlando. He previously expressed how his identity was often linked to his father, former NFL star Antonio Freeman. A significant ambition for him was to establish a legacy deserving enough for his children to proudly identify as the offspring of Alex.

With last year’s achievements, he has gained recognition in American soccer, and now he aims to expand that notoriety in Spain, competing for a club just behind the foremost teams in La Liga. The question remains: Is 2025 merely a significant leap or the first of many to come? Freeman is poised for the challenges ahead.

“In retrospect, it feels as though everything has flowed seamlessly over the past year,” he reflects. “The events of the last year have fallen into place harmoniously, for which I am immensely grateful. The journey felt cinematic, full of moments where everything aligned. While there were challenges, knowing I overcame numerous obstacles while still finding success is what truly matters.”

Freeman’s path has been punctuated by pivotal moments—nervy matches against Turkey, significant Gold Cup appearances, a brawl with Paraguay, and hat-trick aspirations against Uruguay. Each of these experiences contributed to a remarkable 2025 that will be hard to surpass. However, with a World Cup on the horizon, Freeman remains eager for the next opportunity that awaits.