Determining the best soccer player in the US can be subjective, as it depends on various factors such as position, impact, and personal preferences. However, one name that frequently comes up in discussions about the greatest American soccer player is **Christian Pulisic**.
Christian Pulisic: The Star of US Soccer
**Early Life and Career:**
Christian Pulisic was born on September 18, 1998, in Hershey, Pennsylvania. From a young age, he showed exceptional talent and was soon scouted by top clubs in Europe. At 16, Pulisic joined Borussia Dortmund’s youth academy in Germany, one of the top leagues globally, which marked the beginning of his ascent in professional soccer.
**Achievements with Borussia Dortmund:**
Pulisic made his professional debut for Borussia Dortmund in January 2016. His speed, dribbling skills, and ability to read the game quickly made him a key player. While at Dortmund, he broke several records:
- Became the youngest non-German to score in the Bundesliga
- Won the DFB-Pokal Cup in the 2016-2017 season
- Appeared consistently in Champions League matches
**Chelsea and Premier League Success:**
In January 2019, Pulisic signed with Chelsea FC in the English Premier League for a transfer fee of $73 million, making him the most expensive American player ever. At Chelsea, Pulisic continued to excel:
- Scored a hat-trick against Burnley, becoming the youngest Chelsea player to achieve this in the Premier League
- Contributed significantly to Chelsea’s Champions League victory in the 2020-2021 season
- Awarded more opportunities to showcase his versatility as a winger and an attacking midfielder
Impact on the US National Team
**Key Player for the USMNT:**
Pulisic has been a cornerstone for the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) since making his debut in 2016. His contributions include:
- Scored critical goals in World Cup qualifiers
- Played pivotal roles in the CONCACAF Gold Cup and Nations League
- Wore the captain’s armband multiple times, reflecting his leadership qualities
**Influence Beyond the Field:**
Not just a star on the pitch, Pulisic has become a role model for young American athletes. His journey to one of the top European leagues has opened doors for many aspiring US soccer players. His presence has inspired investments in youth development and soccer academies across the country.
Other Notable Mentions
While Pulisic often takes the spotlight, other American players have also made significant contributions. Players like **Landon Donovan** and **Clint Dempsey** were trailblazers for American soccer, proving that US players could compete on the world stage. **Weston McKennie** and **Giovanni Reyna** are also rising stars who show immense promise.
Conclusion
While the title of the “best” soccer player in the US may be subjective, Christian Pulisic often stands out due to his remarkable achievements at a young age, significant impact on both club and national levels, and his role as an inspiration for future soccer talents in America.