The top American talents who are standing out in Europe

Ahead of the new season, clubs assess their squads and add some much-needed reinforcements. With so many talented players currently playing their trade in European football’s most significant leagues, there are some great players to watch. We’re even seeing some top American talents beginning to make a name for themselves, despite the nation not consistently producing an array of footballers.

Nowadays, things are changing in America. While players from that part of the world still generally prefer to leave the nation to continue their careers in Europe, American talents are starting to emerge more consistently. The land of NBA basketball players and NFL lines for fans to explore hasn’t always had many homegrown professionals to follow in Europe. Still, with the World Cup on the horizon, plus the sport's growth in the country, some exciting players are beginning to shine in some of the biggest and best leagues.

With many of these top players potentially turning out for Mauricio Pochettino’s United States men's national team when the World Cup comes around in 2026, below we highlight some of the top American talents who are currently standing out in Europe and look set to have another fruitful campaign ahead.

Folarin Balogun – Monaco

At one point, big things were expected of Folarin Balogun when he came through the ranks at Arsenal. In the end, though, he was forced to seek more first-team opportunities elsewhere after several fruitful loan spells away from the Gunners. He eventually found a new home in French football with Monaco, scoring 11 goals in 42 appearances for the club. Now, at the age of 24, one of the USMNT’s brightest stars is capable of kicking on once again this campaign.

Weston McKennie – Juventus

After experiencing periods of stagnation during his career, Weston McKennie finally seems to be building momentum at Italian giants Juventus. The midfield general is now an essential figure at the Old Lady and will be desperate to continue his upward trajectory this season.

Haji Wright – Coventry City

Under the guidance of Premier League legend Frank Lampard at Coventry City, Haji Wright has become a key player within their ranks. Before joining the Championship side, Wright scored 29 league goals in two seasons in Turkish football. He has since continued his form in England, scoring 28 times for the Sky Blues in 70 games. If Coventry is to challenge at the top end of the table this season, Haji Wright will almost certainly have something to do with it.

Malik Tillman – Bayern Leverkusen

Playing for one of German football’s most prestigious clubs after recently joining from PSV Eindhoven, Bayer Leverkusen’s Malik Tillman is another player to watch this season. Erik ten Hag’s recruit has already established himself as an essential part of the USMNT project moving forward, with his ability on the ball and his direct running making him a dangerous proposition. Now, with the Bundesliga to navigate, Tillman could evolve further.

Antonee Robinson - Fulham

A player Fulham will do well to keep hold of this season, Antonee Robinson, is widely regarded as one of the finest left-sided defenders in the Premier League. Big clubs have been monitoring his progress, and should the Cottagers struggle in the campaign ahead, then their speedy full-back could easily be snapped up by another club in January or at the end of the season.

Special mention must also go to Christian Pulisic (AC Milan), Yunus Musah (AC Milan), and Ricardo Pepi (PSV).