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Brad Friedel has identified a standout talent from the United States who he believes could become a key player by the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The former USA international praised the abilities of American goalkeeper Matt Freese, expressing confidence that the upcoming World Cup could serve as the perfect platform for him to elevate his career.

At 27, Freese appears poised to become the first Major League Soccer (MLS) goalkeeper to start for the United States in a major tournament, joining fellow home-based shot-stoppers Matt Turner and Chris Brady in the squad.

Speaking exclusively to Freebets.com, Friedel shared his thoughts on the current crop of American goalkeepers.

“I gave Matt Freese his start with the US under-19 national team,” Friedel recalled. “He’s a fantastic athlete, a very good young man, and he’s calm and composed under pressure.”

“This will be his first experience in a major tournament – he didn’t go through any Under-20 or Under-17 World Cups.”

“Technically, he’ll be very strong. The only question comes if he makes a mistake – that’s the unpredictable element with all goalkeepers. That’s probably why Matt Turner is also in the squad – his experience provides a safety net if a change becomes necessary.”

“They’ve also included Chris Brady, who perhaps has the most promising long-term potential of all. He’s only 22 but has already played over 100 first-team professional matches.”

Friedel reflected on how each generation of American goalkeepers had their breakthrough moment. “Whether it was Tony Meola, myself, Kasey Keller, or Tim Howard – we all had our first tournament. Maybe this will be the one that turns Matt Freese into a global star.”

Although some may view the absence of US goalkeepers in Europe’s top-five leagues as a concern, Friedel suggested it might actually be beneficial.

“Personally, I’d always prefer our players to compete at the highest level during their peak years,” he said.

“But it speaks volumes about the quality of MLS that all three goalkeepers come from there. For goalkeepers, a shot is a shot and a cross is a cross – they can continue developing in MLS.”

“The main difference is the pressure. MLS doesn’t have the same intensity as European or South American leagues. But that’s not necessarily a bad thing. For someone like Freese, making his first major tournament appearance, less pressure could actually help him.”

The USA have been drawn into Group D alongside Paraguay, Australia, and Turkey. Friedel advised caution when setting expectations for the co-host nation’s campaign.

“I’m really concerned about Paraguay. Any team that qualifies from South America is strong – to get out of that region is a real battle. So it’s crucial that we start with three points,” he explained.

“If we lose the opening match, it becomes difficult to progress in a favourable position, especially with a team like Turkey in the group – they’re an excellent side.”

“As for Australia, I wasn’t among those celebrating when we drew them. On paper, we might have better players, but attitude and performance on the day matter most. Australia will be a tough opponent too.”

“For me, success would be reaching the knockout stages and then seeing who we face next. If we come up against Spain, France, England, Germany, or Belgium and lose, that’s understandable.”

The United States are led by head coach Mauricio Pochettino, and Friedel dismissed speculation linking the Argentine with the vacant AC Milan managerial position.

“People don’t understand how Mauricio handles his negotiations. At this stage, he doesn’t attend meetings himself – his representative does. Every coach in the world, whether employed or not, has agents exploring potential opportunities that align with their vision.”

“I don’t pay any attention to those rumours. Knowing Mauricio, he’s fully focused on the World Cup. If things go well, I can see him staying with the US team. But when he accepted the role, it wasn’t for another four-year cycle – he was brought in to guide the team through the World Cup in North America and to achieve the best possible results.”

“What happens afterward doesn’t concern me at all. If he takes the team to the quarter-finals or even the semi-finals, I’d love for him to stay – but that doesn’t necessarily mean he will.”