World Cup Timing Is Delaying MLS Players’ Moves to Europe
The World Cup Clock Is Ticking: Why MLS Standouts May Put European Dreams on Hold
As the 2025 MLS season came to a close, several American players finished the year in the strongest form of their careers. Strong club performances, growing international recognition, and rising market value have placed them firmly on the radar of European clubs. Yet, despite that momentum, a summer move abroad may not be as simple—or as wise—as it once seemed.
With the World Cup just months away, timing has become everything.
A Breakout MLS Year Raises Big Questions
Players such as Columbus Crew defender Max Arfsten, Orlando City’s fast-rising fullback Alex Freeman, New York City FC goalkeeper Matt Freese, and Real Salt Lake attacker Diego Luna all took major steps forward over the past year. Their progress has not gone unnoticed by U.S. men’s national team head coach Mauricio Pochettino, who has emphasized casting the widest possible net when evaluating potential World Cup contributors.
Ordinarily, an offseason following a breakout year is the perfect moment to test European waters. The winter transfer window is opening, scouts are watching, and ambition is high. But this offseason carries more weight than most.
Why the World Cup Changes Everything
“Six months out from a World Cup, players are going to prioritize one thing above all else: making the roster,” explained Richard Motzkin, executive vice president at Wasserman, which represents numerous U.S. internationals. “Anything that puts playing time or continuity at risk becomes a serious concern.”
In short, stability matters more than prestige right now. Regular minutes, familiarity with coaching staff, and defined roles can outweigh the allure of a European badge—at least temporarily.
Matt Freese: Stability Over Speculation
No player embodies this mindset more than Matt Freese. The NYCFC goalkeeper signed a long-term extension through 2030 earlier this season and has little interest in disrupting his trajectory. With his primary competition also playing in MLS, a move abroad would not necessarily improve his national team standing.
For Freese, the logic is simple: keep starting, stay sharp, and revisit Europe after the World Cup, when the pressure eases and options expand.
Arfsten and Luna: Interest Is There, But Timing Is Delicate
Max Arfsten and Diego Luna sit in a more flexible middle ground. Both are under contract for multiple years, but both have already attracted attention from abroad.
Arfsten was monitored by English Championship side Middlesbrough earlier this year, though Columbus Crew’s valuation proved too high. While the club has shown it will sell when the right offer arrives, timing remains crucial. Any move would need to guarantee immediate playing time.
Luna’s situation is even more nuanced. Creative attacking players from MLS often face greater skepticism overseas, and Real Salt Lake sees him as a long-term cornerstone.
RSL sporting director Kurt Schmid made it clear that any potential transfer would need to align with both club and country priorities. With the World Cup approaching, neither side is eager to gamble.
Alex Freeman’s Rapid Rise Creates a Dilemma
Perhaps the most complicated case belongs to Alex Freeman. His ascent has been rapid and eye-catching, highlighted by a standout international performance capped with two goals against Uruguay in November.
Freeman has publicly stated his preference to remain in Orlando, citing comfort within the system and consistent match minutes. From a national team perspective, that continuity makes sense.
From a club standpoint, however, the situation is more tense. Freeman’s contract expires at the end of 2026, and despite Orlando offering a significantly improved deal, a renewal appears unlikely. European interest—most notably from Villarreal—adds pressure.
The Loan-Back Compromise
One increasingly realistic solution is a transfer paired with a loan back to MLS through the World Cup. This arrangement allows players to secure their European move without jeopardizing their national team prospects, while MLS clubs avoid losing valuable assets for free.
For Freeman, such a deal could offer the best of both worlds. Orlando would receive a transfer fee, the player would maintain stability, and the European club would secure talent early.
Waiting May Be the Smartest Move
With the World Cup just six months away, most major decisions are already leaning toward caution. While transfer rumors will continue, the overarching trend is clear: for many MLS stars, the smartest career move right now may be standing still.
Europe isn’t going anywhere. The World Cup, however, won’t wait.
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