Brendan Joseph

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During the most recent international window, the United States Men’s National Team enjoyed a successful two-leg series against Jamaica in the CONCACAF Nations League, triumphing on aggregate (1-0, 4-2) and advancing to the semifinal round. However, a particular note of interest is the roster inclusion of a highly-rated prospect from one of the world’s storied clubs, despite his continued wait for a senior debut. Diego Kochen is developing at Barcelona and has been consistently named to the match-day squad while also competing with the reserves. The 18-year-old goalkeeper appears to be on track for a big career, but there are many challenges that he will face along the way.

The United States Women’s National Team closed out the year with a pair of friendlies against England and the Netherlands, registering a 0-0 draw and a 2-1 victory, respectively. However, the big news from the window was the international retirement of Alyssa Naeher, whose departure will leave a massive hole between the posts

The end of the year signals the beginning of a new transfer window, one during which many Major League Soccer players depart their respective clubs at the conclusion of the spring-to-fall season. For some young talents, this juncture is the time to make the jump to Europe, joining new outfits that are in the midst of their campaigns. Matai Akinmboni appears set to journey overseas, with an imminent move in January. The 18-year-old D.C. United defender is reportedly headed to Bournemouth in the English Premier League.

There are many routes to the United States Women’s National Team, with some players breaking into the fold from seemingly out of nowhere following a slower development process. Others are marked for stardom from an early age by dominating at the youth level. With stellar performances all the way up the pyramid, Ally Sentnor is decidedly in the latter group. The 20-year-old Utah Royals attacker parlayed a strong debut National Women’s Soccer League season into her first senior international call-up and appearances.

The annual January camp provides an opportunity for the United States Men’s National Team to examine potential additions to the program, particularly those who are coming off of a strong season in domestic competitions. For some players, this is the apotheosis of their international careers, but for others, the gathering is the beginning of a journey that leads to a spot on the World Cup roster. One new entrant into the group is Maximilian “Max” Arfsten, who recently completed his second season in Major League Soccer. The 23-year-old Columbus Crew wing-back has enjoyed a sharp rise and is included on Mauricio Pochettino’s latest roster.

The first of two January camp friendlies is against a South American opponent.

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The Utah Royals goalkeeper has a chance to compete for the starting job.