As we move into 2025, American soccer stands on the verge of a thrilling year. After an electrifying 2024, where the U.S. women’s national team won Olympic gold and the men’s team made it to the knockout stages of the Paris Games for the first time in 24 years, the stage is set for even more drama. Along with marquee coaching hires like Emma Hayes for the USWNT and Mauricio Pochettino for the USMNT, 2025 promises to be another year of significant milestones.
Here are GOAL’s 10 bold predictions for 2025:
- Alexia Putellas Will Join the NWSL
After a successful spell at Barcelona, two-time Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas will make the high-profile move to the NWSL. She’ll join the Washington Spirit, forming a formidable partnership with Trinity Rodman, taking the team to new heights. - Gio Reyna Will Leave Borussia Dortmund
After a disappointing year with Dortmund and a failed loan move to Nottingham Forest, Reyna is expected to seek a fresh start in 2025. Whether in Germany, England, Spain, or elsewhere, he’ll leave Signal Iduna Park in pursuit of his next challenge. - Neymar Will Move to MLS
With his contract expiring in 2025 and his recent purchase of a Miami property, Neymar is set for a move to Major League Soccer. The reunion with former Barcelona teammates at Inter Miami could be a game-changer. - Emma Hayes Will Win Her Second Ballon d’Or
After guiding the U.S. women’s team to Olympic glory in 2024, Hayes will lead them to more victories in 2025. Her unbeaten record will earn her a second consecutive Ballon d’Or as the world’s top women’s coach. - Chelsea Will Win the Club World Cup
Under manager Enzo Maresca, Chelsea will secure their second Club World Cup title in 2025. With impressive performances, especially from Cole Palmer, they’ll prove their dominance on the global stage. - Sophia Smith Will Win the NWSL Golden Boot
Fully recovered from injury, Sophia Smith will be back to her blistering best in 2025, securing the NWSL Golden Boot with a dominant campaign for Portland Thorns. - Inter Miami Will Win MLS Cup
After a disappointing 2024, Inter Miami, under new manager Javier Mascherano, will rebound in 2025, lifting the MLS Cup with Lionel Messi leading the charge to victory. - Christian Pulisic Will Be a Ballon d’Or Finalist
Pulisic’s stellar performances for AC Milan in 2024-25 will see him nominated for the prestigious Ballon d’Or, making history as the first U.S. men’s player to finish among the top 30. - The USMNT Will Claim a CONCACAF Double
Pochettino’s U.S. team will dominate the 2025 CONCACAF Nations League and Gold Cup, securing back-to-back trophies and solidifying their status as the top team in the region. - Mallory Swanson Will Be Traded for an NWSL Record Fee
Despite a great individual year, Swanson will look for a fresh start in 2025, with a major trade expected to send her to a new club for a record-breaking fee, further establishing her as one of the league’s top talents.
As American soccer continues to evolve, 2025 will be a year of major breakthroughs, both on and off the field. Stay tuned for what promises to be an unforgettable year.
