Several key United States men's national team players are under the microscope as the European club season begins this week. Ricardo Pepi, Yunus Musah, and Gianluca Busio all have points to prove for their respective clubs.
Can Pepi lead PSV's attack?
Ricardo Pepi remains at PSV Eindhoven for now. The striker had a frustrating opening match, failing to score despite taking four shots in a draw with Fortuna Sittard. He will be expected to convert those chances when PSV faces Excelsior this weekend.
PSV's director of football is former USMNT player Earnie Stewart. The Dutch champions have seen other American talent like Malik Tillman depart recently. Sergino Dest missed the opener through suspension but is eligible to return. His reported €23 million release clause expired on August 15.
Will Musah find a role at Milan?
Yunus Musah is getting a fresh start under new AC Milan manager Ruben Amorim. The 23-year-old midfielder featured regularly in preseason after a difficult loan spell at Atalanta last season. He made 20 Serie A appearances but started only five.
Musah missed the 2026 World Cup after playing a significant role for the United States in 2022. Reports from Italy indicate Amorim values his pace and versatility. He could get another chance to impress against Manchester United in a friendly. Teammate Christian Pulisic remains sidelined with a leg injury suffered during the World Cup, which you can track on our injuries page.
Is Busio ready for a USMNT return?
Gianluca Busio helped Venezia win promotion back to Serie A last season. The 24-year-old recorded seven goals and four assists in 37 league appearances. His form was rewarded with the club captaincy this summer.
Busio has earned 17 caps for the United States, but his last appearance was in November 2024. He will lead Venezia in their Coppa Italia opener against Modena on Saturday. A strong start in Serie A could force his way into manager Mauricio Pochettino's plans for the next camp. Fans can see how the USMNT squad is shaping up on our squad page.
Which other Americans are in focus?
A trio of USMNT players are now at Middlesbrough in England's Championship. Sebastian Berhalter, Aidan Morris, and Max Arfsten give American fans another reason to follow the second tier.
The new World Cup cycle represents a critical period for all involved with the national team. Consistent club performance is the primary path to selection. Players like Pepi and Musah need to seize their opportunities now to stay in contention. The upcoming international fixtures, visible on our fixtures list, will provide the next test.
