Roughly four months and 120 miles away from the Los Angeles stadium, where he may make his World Cup debut, Matt Freese was focusing on the present. Surrounded by fire pits and palm trees, he and his NYCFC teammates traded one of the harshest East Coast winters for pleasant weather in Palm Springs ahead of their MLS opener against LA Galaxy.

The start of the new MLS season, which kicks off amid preparations for the upcoming World Cup, holds significant implications for players. They strive to impress national team coaches before final roster selections are made this spring. U.S. Men’s National Team head coach Mauricio Pochettino frequently selects from MLS talent, suggesting many players may earn a spot on the World Cup roster this summer.

“[I’m] incredibly grateful for that opportunity,” Freese reflects, emphasizing the importance of remaining present and performing consistently to honor the trust placed in him.

Freese, who rose rapidly in the national team’s goalkeeper ranks, is now poised for his first World Cup experience, an exciting but challenging task. He aims to maintain his training regimen and stay focused as the season progresses.

Meanwhile, players like Cade Cowell view the World Cup as a motivation for future success. New York Red Bulls’ head coach Michael Bradley embodies the aspirations of many American players aiming for the roster despite a limited number of spots.

Former national team captain Hugo Lloris shares his experiences, emphasizing the importance of finding balance amid club commitments and personal growth in this evolving soccer landscape in the U.S. He acknowledges the growth of soccer in America and expresses excitement for the upcoming challenges and opportunities ahead.