The new European season has barely begun, but three Americans have already given supporters plenty to talk about.
Sebastian Berhalter is making an early impression in England, Auston Trusty has found the net in Scotland, while Ricardo Pepi has delivered an important response in the Netherlands.
For the United States men's national team, the post-World Cup period is about more than simply celebrating what has been achieved. The next cycle has already begun, and club form will play a major role in deciding who remains central to Mauricio Pochettino's plans.
That makes the opening weeks of the European season particularly interesting.
And Berhalter, Trusty and Pepi have all provided reasons for optimism.
Berhalter's European Adventure Is Already Producing
Berhalter's move to Middlesbrough was one of the more intriguing transfers involving an American this summer.
The 25-year-old left Vancouver Whitecaps after establishing himself as an important player in MLS and earning a place in the United States' World Cup squad. Middlesbrough completed his move on a four-year contract.
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He wasted little time making an impression.
During his Middlesbrough debut against Espanyol, Berhalter delivered an assist from a corner as the Championship club drew 3-3. He also played a role in the build-up to another goal.
[Canadian Soccer Daily]
That was only pre-season, but it offered an early glimpse of what Middlesbrough had signed.
His set-piece delivery immediately stood out, while his passing and ability to influence games from midfield provided another reason for optimism.
Berhalter now has the opportunity to prove that his World Cup breakthrough was not a one-off.
Trusty Provides a Different Kind of Contribution
While Berhalter is attempting to establish himself in England, Auston Trusty is already familiar with European football.
The Celtic defender produced a particularly memorable contribution as his side defeated Dundee United 4-0 in the Premier Sports Cup, scoring the opening goal.
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For a centre-back, finding the net is always a welcome bonus.
Trusty headed Celtic in front from a corner before his side eventually turned the match into a comfortable victory.
It was another reminder of the value he can provide from set pieces, particularly given his size and aerial ability.
His confidence will also be welcome after he experienced a significant moment at the World Cup, where he scored against Türkiye.
Pepi Finds His Answer
Then there is Ricardo Pepi.
The PSV striker had a much-needed moment in the club's 2-1 Eredivisie victory over Excelsior, scoring the winning goal after the visitors had drawn level.
[Diario AS]
Pepi played 84 minutes and finished the match with five attempts, including two on target.
Most importantly, he found the decisive goal.
For a striker, those moments matter.
Pepi has already established himself as an important option for the United States, and his PSV form will remain closely watched as he looks to build on his international experience.
Why These Three Matter
There is an interesting contrast between the three players.
Berhalter is trying to establish himself in a new country and prove that he can thrive in English football.
Trusty is attempting to build on his World Cup experience and remain an important part of Celtic's plans.
Pepi is competing for goals and consistency at one of the Netherlands' biggest clubs.
Their situations are different, but all three have one thing in common: they have started the new campaign with positive moments.
That matters for the USMNT.
The World Cup Changed the Conversation
All three players were part of the United States' 2026 World Cup squad, with Berhalter and Trusty particularly memorable during the group-stage defeat to Türkiye.
Berhalter scored and assisted Trusty in that match, becoming the first USMNT player in the modern era to record both contributions in a World Cup match.
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Trusty scored the opener.
Pepi was also part of the squad, having entered the tournament with 35 international caps and 13 goals according to U.S. Soccer's roster information.
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Their challenge now is to make sure the momentum from the World Cup carries into club football.
The Early Signs Are Encouraging
It is far too early to make major conclusions from a handful of matches.
Berhalter still has to adapt to the demands of the Championship.
Trusty will face stronger opposition as Celtic's European schedule develops.
Pepi will have to maintain his scoring form across an entire Eredivisie campaign.
But football careers are often shaped by small moments of momentum.
A good debut.
A goal from a set piece.
A decisive finish when your team needs it.
For these three Americans, those moments have already arrived.
And This Could Be Only the Beginning
The United States has entered a new phase following the 2026 World Cup, and competition for places will only become more intense.
That is good news for Pochettino.
If players such as Berhalter, Trusty and Pepi can establish themselves as regular performers at their clubs, the USMNT will have more depth and more options to work with.
For now, though, there is no need to get carried away.
The season is still young.
But three Americans have already made sure people are paying attention.
Berhalter is beginning his European journey. Trusty is finding the net. Pepi is finding his confidence.
And the next few months will reveal whether these early flashes develop into something much bigger.
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