Navigating Transfer Decisions Ahead of the 2026 World Cup

The conclusion of the 2025 Major League Soccer (MLS) season marked a successful year for numerous players within the U.S. men’s national team competing domestically. Columbus Crew defender Max Arfsten, Orlando City defender Alex Freeman, New York City FC goalkeeper Matt Freese, and Real Salt Lake’s Diego Luna all enhanced their profiles on both club and international stages. This growth supports U.S. manager Mauricio Pochettino’s commitment to thoroughly scout for talented players to bolster his squad.

The offseason presents an opportunity for these players to evaluate their circumstances and consider a pivotal question: Is it time to advance their careers with an overseas move? This query holds more weight now than it typically would.

With the European winter transfer window impending and the World Cup next summer approaching, players are wary of jeopardizing favorable situations that could affect their standing with Pochettino as the tournament nears. Securing playing time—regardless of location—is crucial. The significance of participating in next summer’s World Cup cannot be overstated.

Richard Motzkin, executive vice president and managing director of global soccer at Wasserman, a firm representing many USMNT players, stated, “As we approach six months before a World Cup, for players from the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, this is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to make a World Cup roster and compete in their home country. It’s vital for them to position themselves favorably as they aim for selection.”

For players, the circumstances surrounding these decisions vary. For instance, Freese recently signed a contract extending through 2030 and reportedly has no desire to transfer. This decision aligns with his current standing in MLS, where his competition primarily consists of players like Matt Turner of the New England Revolution and Patrick Schulte of Columbus Crew. Freese is unlikely to lose his starting position due to a rival excelling in Europe, and he can focus on his aspirations post-World Cup.

Similarly, Arfsten and Luna are under contract for several years, although their situations are somewhat more flexible. Arfsten attracted interest from Middlesbrough earlier this year, yet Columbus Crew’s asking price exceeded initial offers. However, the Crew has previously shown willingness to transfer players, as seen with Aidan Morris and Cucho Hernández. Thus, the right timing and financial conditions will be critical.

Luna’s position demands particular attention, as attacking players from the U.S. often need to demonstrate greater prowess than their counterparts in other positions. Additionally, Real Salt Lake intends to build a team around Luna for the foreseeable future. RSL chief soccer officer and sporting director Kurt Schmid commented, “While a move seems unlikely right now, circumstances can change unexpectedly. Any transfer would need to be carefully considered to avoid disrupting national team commitments, especially with the World Cup approaching.”

Freeman’s trajectory, however, has been notably rapid, highlighted by a stellar two-goal performance against Uruguay in November. He has expressed a preference to remain with Orlando City. “My focus in January and February is to return to Orlando and perform at my best,” Freeman told ESPN, emphasizing the importance of staying within a familiar system.

Nevertheless, the interests of player and club do not always align seamlessly. With Freeman’s contract set to expire in 2026, Orlando has put forth a lucrative max-U22 offer that would significantly increase his current salary. Despite this, Freeman is not expected to sign, placing Orlando in a precarious position. Without a transfer, the club risks losing him without compensation at the end of next season. Reports indicate that LaLiga side Villarreal had a bid rejected but remains keen on Freeman.

One potential solution involves facilitating a transfer while allowing Freeman to remain on loan with Orlando through the World Cup. This arrangement would allow him to make his move without jeopardizing his position with the national team, while also providing Orlando with financial returns. In this scenario, Freeman holds considerable influence over the outcome.

As the World Cup approaches in just six months, the landscape of player transfers is increasingly solidified, although some elements remain in flux.