Almost exactly two years ago, the U.S. men's national team secured a big commitment. A budding young star, born in the U.S. but raised in England, decided to join up with the USMNT after coming up through the Arsenal academy and starring for the Three Lions on the youth level.
Sound familiar? Funny how history repeats itself, huh?
As the battle for Folarin Balogun's allegiance rages on, the one for Yunus Musah's international future remains a key moment in USMNT history. It was in March 2021 that the U.S. secured a commitment from a talented young prospect that would anchor that midfield at the 2022 World Cup and, in theory, a few more in the coming years.
Musah, still just 20 years old, is now entering his second cycle and, with this group, is now something of a veteran. He's earned 24 caps in total, with two coming in friendlies before his big decision. Four, most importantly, came at the World Cup, where Musah starred next to Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie in midfield against the likes of England, coincidentally.
So now, two years on, how does Musah look back at the decision? How much did that one choice change the trajectory of his career and life for good?
"Being at the World Cup and playing the way I did," Musah said, "it was really, really nice. It was a great achievement for me."
"[The decision] brings back a lot of memories," Musah said, "and it just makes me smile because I've had a wonderful time with the U.S. so far."