Reflecting on a Tumultuous 2025: Turner’s Journey and Future Aspirations

“I think there were a lot of good things in 2025 and a lot of not-so-good things,” says Matt Turner, aptly summarizing a tumultuous year. The highs were extraordinary, while the lows were some of the most challenging he has faced in recent memory, both as a goalkeeper and as an individual.

With the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT), Turner experienced the disappointment of a CONCACAF Nations League failure in March, followed by a severe defeat to Switzerland before the Gold Cup, which resulted in his reassignment as the primary backup for the remainder of the year. On the club front, his journey was similarly fraught, characterized by limited appearances at Crystal Palace after struggling for game time at both Arsenal and Nottingham Forest, a protracted signing saga with Lyon, and a last-ditch loan to the New England Revolution.

Each month seemed to present Turner, now 31, with new challenges that tested his resolve like never before.

Yet, amid the struggles, there were also moments of joy. Turner was part of the Crystal Palace squad that clinched the 2025 FA Cup, marking the club’s first major trophy. He relished daily car rides with USMNT teammate Chris Richards, filled with laughter and camaraderie. Additionally, the opportunity to move closer to family and reunite with his children, who had spent much of their lives in England, brought him fulfillment. His ongoing involvement with the national team, despite limited playing time, was also a source of appreciation.

“I try to take everything in stride because I understand that this game can give and take away,” Turner reflects. “You have to embrace what comes and let go of what doesn’t. Being an FA Cup winner is something I cherish deeply. I may have played three matches for the national team and lost all three, but I still had the trust of the coaches. Returning to New England with renewed purpose at the end of the season, I found numerous positives in my experiences.”

However, 2025 wasn’t solely about recognizing the positives; it was also about confronting the negatives. Turner engaged in candid conversations, both with others and within himself, addressing the more difficult moments head-on.

Historically, Turner has been the first-choice goalkeeper for the USMNT since making his debut in 2021. In his initial four years, he made at least 11 appearances each year, starting all matches during the 2022 World Cup. However, in 2025, he found himself overshadowed by NYCFC’s Matt Freese. Turner started both of the Nations League matches in March, but after a challenging performance against Switzerland, he became Freese’s backup, failing to see any further action as Freese established himself as the frontrunner for the upcoming World Cup.

Despite external perceptions, Turner remains confident. USMNT manager Mauricio Pochettino has made it clear that World Cup positions are open to anyone willing to compete, a challenge Turner is ready to embrace. He firmly believes in his ability to make Pochettino’s decision a difficult one.

“Ultimately, I want to be the one relied upon during critical moments because I’ve demonstrated that capability in the past,” he asserts. “I may have faltered a time or two, but I have proven my reliability in tough situations. I have that self-belief, and I know the coaching staff shares that trust in me. Though I haven’t appeared in every game, my teammates respect my abilities, which is empowering.”

Turner’s journey is about taking one step at a time. He understands that his career has never been devoid of challenges, and it would be unrealistic to expect it to change now. “I will continue to push myself. I refuse to accept my current situation. The coaching staff has shown they are willing to make changes. They are committed to doing what is best for the team’s success, and I believe in that.”

As the 2026 MLS season begins, Turner is poised to reignite the goalkeeper competition with the USMNT in March. He acknowledges the unique bond within the goalkeeper union, a camaraderie forged from shared experiences.

While watching Freese command the field has not been easy, Turner is determined to respond positively to the competition. “I’ve been with the national team for about seven years, and I understand the importance of respect and support among us,” he notes. “I expect to be treated with respect, whether I’m on the pitch or not, and I strive to extend that to others as well.”

Although Freese is regarded as the frontrunner, Turner refuses to give up hope, and Pochettino has reassured that the door remains open for all goalkeepers. “We know what Matt can bring to the team, and as we approach the World Cup, we must provide opportunities for various keepers to demonstrate their capabilities,” Pochettino remarked.

This offseason has been atypically long for Turner, offering him a rare chance to recuperate. He has not played since mid-October and missed the USMNT’s squad for November friendlies, feeling a growing urgency to prove himself again. “Having this extended break is unprecedented for me, and I intend to use it wisely to gain an edge. I feel my body is healthy, my mind is clear, and I am eager to return to the field. That eagerness is a positive sign.”

Turner recognizes the need for total commitment as the World Cup approaches. “I’m in another transitional phase, but I find my peace by focusing on the day-to-day,” he explains. “My goal is to win games with the Revs, make critical saves, and create impactful moments consistently. Balancing my commitment to both the Revs and the USMNT will not yield success; I need to be fully immersed in my current endeavors. The rest will happen as it should.”

In believing in himself and embracing the challenges ahead, Turner is optimistic. As he moves forward from 2025, he acknowledges the potential that this year holds. “I feel my path ahead is clear. I’ve safeguarded my mental space this offseason, focusing on my family and myself. I believe everyone in my circle understands the journey that lies ahead for me.”