Alex Freeman is about to step onto the biggest stage of his career when the United States open their 2026 World Cup campaign against Paraguay at SoFi Stadium on Friday.
The 21-year-old defender has gone from MLS hopeful to likely World Cup starter in just 18 months.
Freeman first broke through at Orlando City before earning a January move to Villarreal, and that rise has now put him firmly in Mauricio Pochettino’s plans for the USMNT’s home World Cup opener in Los Angeles.
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Alex Freeman is no longer an unknown USMNT option
Freeman’s climb has been quick, but there is nothing rushed about the way he plays.
Standing 6ft 2in, he offers the USMNT unusual size at right back. His athleticism and composure on the ball have also helped him stand out, both in MLS and since moving to Spain.
Since making his senior debut in June 2025, Freeman has featured in 16 of the next 17 USMNT matches, a clear sign of the trust he has earned within the squad.
That trust has also been reflected in the way senior players speak about him. Christian Pulisic described Freeman as “a beast” and praised his calmness, strength and passing ability during camp.
Famous dad Antonio Freeman has already shown him what big-stage pressure looks like
Freeman’s story also comes with crossover appeal that may be new to many American fans.
He is the son of former Green Bay Packers wide receiver Antonio Freeman, an All-Pro and Super Bowl champion who scored an 81-yard touchdown in Super Bowl XXXI.
That background does not define Alex Freeman’s football career, but it does add context to how naturally he appears to handle pressure.
Ahead of his expected World Cup debut, Freeman said his father’s advice was simple. He told him to be himself because that approach had already taken him this far.
Villarreal move has sharpened Freeman before the World Cup
Freeman’s January move from Orlando City to Villarreal was a major step, and it came with immediate competition for playing time.
He had to adapt quickly to La Liga, but by the end of his first half-season in Spain he had started three of Villarreal’s final six matches.
That matters for the USMNT because Freeman chose the harder path at the right time. La Liga has given him a weekly technical test before a tournament where quick decisions and clean possession will be crucial.
Freeman has said the move was about becoming the best player he could be for the World Cup, which is exactly the kind of mindset the USMNT need from a young defender.
Paraguay will show how ready Freeman really is
The opening match against Paraguay is the kind of fixture that can elevate a player overnight.
Freeman may still be a new name to casual fans, but he is not arriving as a novelty act. He has forced his way into the lineup through form, physical tools and composure.
Pulisic’s praise is telling because it shows Freeman has already made an impression on the leaders of this squad.
Now the right back has a chance to do the same on a much bigger stage.
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