There could be a record number of Americans in the UCL and plenty of tantalizing storylines
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There could be 12+ USMNT players in UCLJuve vs. PSV shouldn't disappointTransfer window could impact some rostersWHAT HAPPENED?
The UEFA Champions League draw is complete, and it could directly impact several key stars in the U.S. men's national team fold.
From Milan's Christian Pulisic and Yunus Musah to PSV's American quartet, there's no shortage of storylines. But first, let's dive into the Americans who are playing in arguably the best competition in professional soccer.
AdvertisementAFPAMERICANS IN UCL
SERIE A
AC Milan: Christian Pulisic, Yunus Musah
Juventus: Tim Weah, Weston McKennie
BUNDESLIGA
Dortmund: Gio Reyna, Cole Campbell
LIGUE 1
Monaco: Folarin Balogun
SCOTTISH PREMIERSHIP
Celtic: Cameron Carter-Vickers
EREDIVISIE
PSV: Sergino Dest, Richard Ledezma, Ricardo Pepi, Malik Tillman
AFPRECORD PRESENCE IN UCL?
There could be a record 12 USMNT players or hopefuls who could feature in Europe's top continental competition. That number could increase if more American players are on the move tied to Friday's transfer deadline.
The previous record was set in 2021, when 10 Americans featured in the Champions League. All of this should bode well for reported incoming U.S. manager Mauricio Pochettino, who will want his players to be tested against the top teams in the world.
Out of the active Americans, U.S. top star Pulisic has the most career UCL matches — making 54 appearances. Balogun could make his first Champions League appearance this season, but based on league form, it might be not assured.
Getty Images SportGET POPCORN OUT FOR JUVE VS. PSV
The most exciting drawn matchup for U.S. fans has to Juventus vs PSV Eindhoven. There could be as many as five Americans on the pitch when the two sides meet (schedule TBD).
Juventus have never faced PSV in the Champions League before, and the Eredivisie champions will be the fourth Dutch opponent the club has faced in the competition.
On paper, the Serie A giants should be considered the favorite but PSV are seemingly on a mission since stunning Ajax and Feyenoord last season on route to their first title in five years. They opened up their current league campaign on a smattering run, scoring 15 goals in three matches and only conceding three. The next highest-scoring team in the Dutch league are Feyenoord with seven.
Could PSV come through with the upset? This will be a must-watch contest.