USMNT news: Balogun to West Ham, Yedlin captaincy, Hoppe joins San Jose

Today’s USMNT news includes Folarin Balogun being linked with West Ham United. It has been revealed that it was DeAndre Yedlin’s decision to give Lionel Messi the Inter Miami captain’s armband. Also, Matthew Hoppe has joined the San Jose Earthquakes.

USMNT news: Folarin Balogun to West Ham

It was thought that Folarin Balogun might get a chance at Arsenal after Gabriel Jesus had to have a minor knee operation and will be out for weeks. However, it is believed that the Gunners’ stance on the American forward has still not changed.

Balogun has been deemed too expensive for Inter Milan but West Ham United are now reportedly interested. According to talkSPORT, “West Ham are eyeing a potential swoop for wantaway Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun.”

The Hammers might need a new striker soon as Gianluca Scamacca could be on his way to Inter Milan. Joining David Moyes’ side would give Balogun the opportunity to test himself in the Premier League and play in the Europa League next season.

USMNT news: DeAndre Yedlin’s captaincy

Lionel Messi has had a phenomenal start to his Inter Miami career, where he has scored five goals in his first three games. The Argentine has also become the MLS side’s new captain having taken the armband off DeAndre Yedlin.

Katie Witham has revealed that it was actually Yedlin’s decision to give up the captaincy for Messi.   This is a very selfless act from the USMNT defender and it just might have been what the team needed; as their fortunes have really turned around since the arrival of Messi.

A similar situation happened when David Beckham joined the LA Galaxy and became captain instead of Landon Donovan. This and other situations led to friction between the two players but right now it all looks rosy for Miami.

USMNT news: Mathew Hoppe joins the San Jose Earthquakes

Mathew Hoppe has joined the San Jose Earthquakes on loan from Middlesbrough and will be in MLS until the end of the 2023 season. Earthquakes General Manager Chris Leitch told the club’s official website, “Matthew is an exciting, young player who has already gotten a lot of experience in a number of different leagues… With his ability to play multiple positions, he is going to be an important addition to our attacking core.”

It is exciting to see the USMNT forward back in North American soccer. However, you have to think of this as a step back in his career. Hoppe is only 22 but has so far been at Schalke 04, Mallorca, Boro and Hibernian, without making a real impact at any of the clubs. Returning to MLS is an opportunity to prove what he can do but he should still have the ambition to make it in Europe.