Many of MLS’s emerging talents were able to gain valuable experience with the US Men’s National Team in Mauricio Pochettino’s first year as head coach.
From Max Arfsten to Matt Freese to Diego Luna, the list was longer than most expected at the start of the year. Alex Freeman may have made the biggest leap in 2025 and his abilities were certainly on display Tuesday night in Tampa.
Freeman scored his first two international goals in a 5-1 draw against CONMEBOL opponents Uruguay. The Orlando City right-back, who saw his contract option exercised earlier this week, put in a stellar 90-minute performance.
Longtime NFL standout Antonio’s son Freeman soared high to double the USMNT lead after 20 minutes. He extended the USMNT lead to 3–0 later in the half, showing off his speed, awareness and finishing ability to deliver a sublime shot from point.
The youngest player in Pochettino’s starting line-up took home the Man of the Match award on Tuesday, capping off a memorable year for club and country.
Freeman has put his name in the mix to be among the defenders picked for next summer’s FIFA World Cup. The 21-year-old’s impactful two-way skills led to him making a total of 51 appearances in all competitions between the USMNT and Orlando City this year.
Pochettino on Tuesday praised Freeman’s impact in the starting line-up, but also admitted his growth is also down to the coaching staff’s willingness to give young players an early chance to grow.
“This is our job, it is our duty, to see the player’s projection. For that we have to give the opportunity and see how they perform, how they act, the character, the mentality,” Pochettino said of Freeman’s growth in 2025 with the USMNT.
“So happy, so happy, because today he scored twice,” Pochettino added. “I think you have to analyze the way he plays. He can play as a third central defender, he can go forward, on the side, go inside. When he has the ball the team is kind of in relief.”
Freeman certainly emerged as a big winner in November and now heads into his MLS offseason following the Lions playoff exit earlier this fall. He will aim to be part of the USMNT mix again when Pochettino’s squad reconvenes next March.
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