Top 10 USMNT Stars in Europe 2025

Top 10 USMNT Stars in Europe 2025 highlights the brightest American talents making their mark across Europe’s most competitive leagues. From Champions League regulars to rising stars in domestic competitions, this list celebrates the players who are not only excelling abroad but also raising the profile of U.S. soccer on the global stage. With strong performances in England, Germany, Spain, Italy, and beyond, these stars bring technical skill, determination, and versatility to their clubs while inspiring a new generation of American fans. Each player on this list is recognized for their impact, consistency, and ability to deliver when it matters most.

This detailed guide goes beyond rankings by exploring their journeys, key achievements, and memorable performances that have defined their careers in Europe. Whether it’s a midfielder controlling the tempo in the Premier League, a forward scoring decisive goals in La Liga, or a defender shutting down world-class attackers in the Bundesliga, these U.S. internationals embody the progress of American football. Perfect for fans, coaches, and analysts who want to follow the best American exports, Top 10 USMNT Stars in Europe – 2025 is your go-to resource for understanding U.S. soccer’s growing influence.

10. Johnny Cardoso: Atlético Madrid

Johnny Cardoso’s career has been a tale of two stories. For the U.S. Men’s National Team, he has struggled to establish himself as a consistent starter, often floating in and out of camps without making the lasting impact many fans hoped for. Injuries and inconsistency have limited his ability to translate club form into international dominance, leaving U.S. supporters waiting to see whether he can truly step up on the biggest stage. That said, the potential has always been clear, and his technical ability, composure on the ball, and intelligent movement in midfield make him one of the most intriguing American players in Europe right now.

At club level, Cardoso has thrived. After an impressive spell with Real Betis, he earned a high-profile move to Atlético Madrid, one of La Liga’s most intense and demanding environments. Under Diego Simeone, a coach known for extracting maximum effort and discipline from his players, Cardoso now has the chance to refine his game further. Simeone’s trust in him speaks volumes, as the Argentine manager rarely invests in players without seeing grit and tactical intelligence. If Cardoso can replicate his club form with the national team, he could be one of the USMNT’s midfield anchors for years to come.

9. Sergiño Dest: PSV

Sergiño Dest is a player whose reputation has fluctuated over the years, but there’s no denying his natural talent. For the U.S. Men’s National Team, he has often been a dynamic outlet on the flanks, bringing pace, creativity, and attacking flair from fullback. Unfortunately, his absence due to a long-term ACL injury left the U.S. without one of their most important attacking weapons for nearly an entire year. That void was felt during crucial games, as his ability to stretch defenses and deliver quality in the final third is unmatched within the U.S. pool.

Now fully recovered, Dest is back at PSV Eindhoven and already making headlines. He scored the winning goal in the Dutch Super Cup against Go Ahead Eagles, proving that he remains a difference-maker when fit. PSV value him not only for his versatility but also for the balance he brings between defense and attack. For Dest, this season is about consistency — stringing together performances that silence the critics who have questioned his defensive concentration in the past.

If he maintains his form, Dest could once again be the USMNT’s best option at right back, restoring the energy and dynamism that made him so vital before his injury.

8. Tim Weah: Marseille

Tim Weah has always carried the weight of his last name, being the son of legendary striker George Weah, but he is carving his own path in Europe. His recent move from Juventus to Marseille represents more than just a club switch — it’s a chance for him to establish himself as a starter in one of Europe’s most passionate footballing environments. At Juve, Weah was often used sparingly, shuffled into different roles, and rarely given the full backing to thrive.

At Marseille, he finds himself under Roberto De Zerbi, a manager known for progressive football and tactical flexibility. Weah’s versatility will be invaluable, as he can operate on either wing, as a wingback, or even centrally if required. This could be the season where he finally gets consistent minutes, something the U.S. national team desperately wants for him.

For the USMNT, Weah’s absence this past summer was noticeable, with his pace and directness sorely missed. If he stays fit and earns De Zerbi’s trust, Weah could return to international duty sharper and more decisive than ever. His new chapter at Marseille isn’t just about nostalgia for his father’s legacy — it’s about writing his own impactful story.

7. Ricardo Pepi: PSV

Ricardo Pepi continues to be one of the most exciting American forwards in Europe. At just 22, he has already experienced the highs and lows of professional football, from difficult spells in Germany to rediscovering his confidence in the Netherlands. Now firmly at PSV, Pepi has the chance to cement himself as the club’s leading striker after returning from injury.

Pepi’s playing style makes him an ideal fit for PSV. He is a natural poacher inside the box but also possesses the work rate to press defenders and link play effectively. Last season, despite being the second-choice striker, he still managed to put up impressive scoring numbers. That production earned him the faith of manager Peter Bosz, who now envisions him as the main man leading the line.

For the U.S. Men’s National Team, Pepi’s development is crucial. The team has lacked a reliable No. 9 for years, and Pepi’s ability to score consistently could fill that void. His injury setbacks have delayed his progress slightly, but his resilience has always shone through. If Pepi can remain healthy and hit form, he could challenge for the Eredivisie Golden Boot while becoming the USMNT’s go-to striker heading into 2026.

6. Weston McKennie: Juventus

Weston McKennie is one of those players who thrives under pressure. Time and time again, when critics or circumstances doubt him, he finds a way to respond with determination. His journey at Juventus has not always been smooth, with questions about his role and future often surfacing, but he continues to prove his worth.

In fact, McKennie’s importance at Juventus has been underlined by the captain’s armband he has worn on multiple occasions. That responsibility shows how respected he is within the squad. His versatility as a midfielder — able to defend, link play, and attack — makes him indispensable. Juventus demand consistency and results, and McKennie’s ability to adapt ensures he remains a key contributor.

On the international stage, McKennie is equally vital. His energy and leadership provide balance in midfield, while his knack for scoring crucial goals has bailed the U.S. out on many occasions. With contract discussions lingering, the upcoming season is an important one for McKennie to secure his long-term future. Regardless of the uncertainty, his resilience and quality ensure that both Juventus and the USMNT can count on him as a central figure in their success.

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5. Malik Tillman: Bayer Leverkusen

Malik Tillman has emerged as one of the most exciting midfield talents in the USMNT setup, and 2025 could be his breakthrough year in Europe. His Gold Cup heroics proved he can shoulder responsibility, as he stepped into a leadership role and delivered consistent performances when the team needed him most. For years, fans had been waiting for him to make that next step, and now he seems ready to embrace it fully.

His move to Bayer Leverkusen represents the next stage in his development. Under Xabi Alonso, Leverkusen has become one of the Bundesliga’s most dynamic teams, and Tillman’s skill set fits perfectly into their high-energy, possession-based system. He can operate as an attacking midfielder or deeper in the pivot, showing versatility that coaches love. This flexibility could see him lock down a starting spot sooner than expected.

For the U.S., Tillman’s evolution is significant. He brings creativity, vision, and technical quality that can elevate the national team midfield. With his confidence soaring and his club career finally on an upward trajectory, Tillman is no longer just a prospect — he’s becoming one of the most influential American players in Europe, ready to impact both club and country in a big way.

4. Tyler Adams: Bournemouth

Tyler Adams remains the heartbeat of the U.S. midfield, a player whose presence often defines the team’s defensive solidity and intensity. Known for his relentless work rate, ball-winning ability, and leadership qualities, Adams has been indispensable to the national team since his rise to prominence before the 2022 World Cup. Even when not at his sharpest, his influence as a leader and organizer is undeniable.

At Bournemouth, Adams has become a key figure in their midfield structure. His ability to break up play and transition quickly from defense to attack makes him vital in the Premier League. While injuries have hampered him in recent years, his recovery and return to form show just how important he remains at both club and international levels.

For the USMNT, Adams symbolizes resilience and responsibility. He may or may not wear the captain’s armband in 2026, but his leadership qualities extend beyond formal titles. The squad looks to him for composure in tense situations, and his voice carries weight both on and off the pitch. If he can maintain fitness, Adams will remain central to the U.S. setup, providing the steel and determination needed for their biggest challenges ahead.

3. Antonee Robinson: Fulham

Antonee Robinson has steadily developed into one of the Premier League’s most complete fullbacks. His performances for Fulham last season were outstanding, as he combined defensive reliability with attacking creativity, finishing as one of the league’s top assist providers from the back. Few players in his position manage to excel at both ends of the pitch, and Robinson’s ability to overlap, deliver accurate crosses, and track back with determination makes him indispensable.

Injuries briefly slowed his momentum, including a summer surgery that delayed his preseason preparations. However, once fully fit, Robinson is expected to reclaim his status as a vital piece for Fulham. The club depends heavily on his width and defensive cover, especially against stronger opposition. His consistency in England’s top flight has elevated his profile and proven that American players can thrive in demanding environments.

For the USMNT, Robinson is irreplaceable. His attacking surges give the team another dimension, while his defensive awareness prevents vulnerabilities in wide areas. His absence in recent camps was keenly felt, showing how much the team values him. If Robinson maintains his fitness, he could be among the best left-backs in Europe, making him a cornerstone for the U.S. leading into 2026.

2. Chris Richards: Crystal Palace

Chris Richards has quickly evolved from a promising young defender to a proven winner in England. His time at Crystal Palace has been transformative, as he helped the club secure both the FA Cup and the Community Shield, beating powerhouses Manchester City and Liverpool along the way. These triumphs not only boosted his confidence but also cemented his reputation as a reliable, composed, and versatile defender at the highest level.

For the USMNT, Richards has stepped up as a leader in the backline. His composure under pressure, aerial dominance, and ability to read the game make him an ideal partner for any defensive setup. During recent international tournaments, Richards emerged as one of the team’s most dependable players, both in defense and as a calming presence on the ball.

Looking ahead, Richards is positioned for even greater responsibility. With Palace possibly facing squad changes, he could become the cornerstone of their defense. His leadership qualities are becoming more evident, and he has grown into a vocal figure for both club and country. If his trajectory continues, Richards could soon be regarded as one of the Premier League’s most reliable center-backs, further enhancing the U.S.’s reputation abroad.

1. Christian Pulisic: AC Milan

Christian Pulisic continues to be the face of American soccer, and his influence in Europe shows no signs of slowing. After years of ups and downs, he has firmly reestablished himself as a key player at AC Milan. Last season, despite the club’s struggles, Pulisic delivered consistently, often carrying the attack with goals and creativity. His importance to Milan underlines just how far he has come since leaving Chelsea.

This season brings fresh challenges. With Massimiliano Allegri taking charge, Pulisic will be tasked with adapting to new tactical demands while maintaining his attacking edge. His ability to cut inside, create chances, and score crucial goals remains vital for Milan, and the club will depend on his leadership in big matches.

For the USMNT, Pulisic remains the undisputed star. Despite the controversies and challenges of recent months, his talent and drive are unquestionable. He continues to deliver when it matters, inspiring teammates and fans alike. As the U.S. prepares for the 2026 World Cup, Pulisic’s form and leadership will be central to their success. Whether at club or country level, he remains the benchmark for American players abroad, proving time and again why he sits at the very top of this list.

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