Matt Turner was the U.S. starter at the 2022 World Cup but hadn’t played for the national team since June 10. His absence raised questions about his future with the squad, especially as the 2026 World Cup approaches in just 100 days.
In a recent friendly against Belgium, Turner returned to the pitch, which has reignited discussions about his potential to reclaim the starting goalkeeper position from Matt Freese. AP reports, “Matt Turner was in goal for the United States for Saturday’s friendly against Belgium, raising the possibility he has a chance to regain the Americans’ starting job from Matt Freese at the World Cup.”
Turner, now 31, faced challenges after his move from Major League Soccer’s New England Revolution to Arsenal ahead of the 2022-23 season. His career trajectory slowed, and he lost his starting job midway through the 2023-24 season after transferring to Nottingham Forest. Subsequently, he was loaned to Crystal Palace, where he became a seldom-used backup.
Meanwhile, Matt Freese, 27, has solidified his position as the starting goalkeeper for MLS’s New York City team since 2023. He displaced Turner in goal for the CONCACAF Gold Cup last summer and has made 12 straight starts, including all six friendlies last fall. Freese’s consistent performance has made it challenging for Turner to regain his former status.
Turner’s return to the national team comes at a critical time, with the U.S. Men’s National Team having called up 27 players for their March training camp. Among them, 11 are former college players, including Turner, who played his collegiate career at Fairfield, where he made 39 appearances and recorded 152 saves.
In addition to Turner, the U.S. squad is also missing key players like right back Sergiño Dest due to injuries. This situation could open up opportunities for Turner to showcase his skills and potentially earn back his starting role.
As observers look ahead, the upcoming matches will be crucial for both Turner and Freese. The competition for the starting goalkeeper position is heating up, and the choices made in the coming weeks could significantly impact the team’s strategy for the World Cup.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the final roster decisions, but the pressure is on for both goalkeepers as they vie for a spot on the team that will represent the U.S. in the 2026 World Cup.