One of the most promising young soccer talents from the USA is making his way to Spain. Alex Freeman, a right-back for the U.S. men's national team, is reportedly poised to join Villarreal from MLS club Orlando City, as reported by The Athletic. The transfer deal is expected to be worth at least $7 million, along with a sell-on clause benefiting Orlando City. This move marks a significant step in Freeman's career as he transitions from Major League Soccer (MLS) to Spain's prestigious La Liga.
A Rising Star in American Soccer
At just 21 years old, Freeman has established himself as a breakout talent in MLS, showcasing remarkable versatility on the field. His impressive performances earned him a place in the MLS All-Star team in 2025, along with the league's Young Player of the Year award. Notably, he scored six goals last season, tying for the most among defenders in the league. The son of former NFL star Antonio Freeman, Alex has also made 11 appearances for the U.S. national team and was part of the squad that reached the final of the Gold Cup in 2025.
As a reliable choice for national team manager Mauricio Pochettino, Freeman is projected to be included in the 26-man roster for the upcoming 2026 World Cup. FOX Sports soccer insider Doug McIntyre anticipates that he could play a starting role in the backline during the tournament, where his skills will be put to the test on an international stage.
Preparing for the World Stage
In a conversation with McIntyre last November, Freeman expressed his aspirations of playing in Europe while focusing on securing a spot for the World Cup. “I need to be in the best form for the World Cup,” he stated ahead of a friendly match against Uruguay. He acknowledged his comfort in Orlando but recognized the importance of making decisions that align with his long-term goals. The urgency of preparing for the World Cup looms large in his mind as he aims to be ready for what he describes as “the most important time in my life.”
Freeman's standout moment came during a friendly match in Tampa, where he scored two goals, including a remarkable effort against Uruguay’s Ronald Araujo, one of the world's top defenders. This performance showcased his exceptional skill and athleticism, further solidifying his reputation as a rising star in American soccer.
Family Legacy and Future Aspirations
Reflecting on his son's development, Antonio Freeman shared insights into Alex's journey, noting that he was a late bloomer who experienced a growth spurt around the ages of 15 or 16. Standing an inch taller than his father’s 6-foot-2 frame, Alex has inherited athletic prowess that runs in the family. The elder Freeman highlighted Alex's desire to showcase his dribbling abilities, even as a right fullback, and praised his recent performance against elite competition.
With his transfer to Villarreal, Alex Freeman now has the opportunity to display his talents with a club that is striving to secure a Champions League spot for the next season. Currently sitting in fourth place in La Liga, behind powerhouses such as Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Atlético Madrid, Villarreal presents an exciting challenge for Freeman as he embarks on this new chapter of his career. As he continues to develop and excel, all eyes will be on the young American as he makes his mark in one of Europe's top leagues.
