U.S. Soccer Stars Reveal Bold Vision for Game's Future as Premier League Summer Series Approaches

This summer has placed the United States firmly in soccer's global focus, with the FIFA Club World Cup, Concacaf Gold Cup, and Premier League Summer Series all occurring alongside MLS action and U.S. women's national team competitions.

All these tournaments are building momentum toward the 2026 FIFA World Cup hosted in the U.S., where the men's national squad will face enormous pressure to deliver strong performances before home supporters. This tournament has the potential to mark a pivotal moment for soccer's future development across America.

The world's premier sporting spectacle could generate increased enthusiasm for following the national squad, greater motivation to track U.S. players competing overseas, and heightened interest in MLS. The groundwork appears well-established with numerous opportunities emerging in the interim.

The Premier League Summer Series offers another avenue to advance one of the globe's most popular sports within the U.S., featuring Manchester United, West Ham United, Bournemouth, and Everton on a preseason journey spanning three states.

Chicago's Soldier Field, Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and New Jersey's MetLife Stadium will welcome all four clubs throughout a week-long period as they gear up for the forthcoming PL campaign. However, like any American tour, it provides supporters the chance to engage with clubs they support from overseas. The American connection adds extra appeal, particularly with USMNT standout Tyler Adams participating with the Cherries. One of the nation's most promising midfield talents gets to showcase his skills on home soil at club level.

Adams's transition to the Premier League has not only advanced his professional trajectory but has also amplified American interest in European soccer. The same applies to players like Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, Tim Weah, and Antonee Robinson, among others. Sports Illustrated interviewed Adams before the previous season ended, discussing his role in developing the sport while competing in England.

"I genuinely don't believe we grasp the influence we wield simply by being in the U.K. or overseas. I always find it strange when I return home and suddenly someone might recognize you or comment 'Well done on your achievements,' since we're never physically present with these supporters. We're walking the streets of Bournemouth, Milan, Turin.

"The influence extends much deeper, but it's challenging to comprehend when you're not interacting with Americans daily. It's certainly an objective of ours. I've discussed this with Christian, Weston, and the other players. We're incredibly eager to develop the sport in the U.S., and I believe we're performing at a decent level. But we simply don't fully grasp our impact yet," Adams explained.

Adams receives the chance to perform before supporters and relatives with his club squad.

"I don't believe people truly comprehend how much time has passed since I've competed in the United States regularly. You can reference the national team, but when playing with them we compete in locations far from my family or my origins. Having this chance to return and play with both the national team and Bournemouth, I think the club situation is particularly special when you can return home and people can watch the club you represent weekly in another country performing in your hometown. I'm thrilled to compete before friends and family."

In another summer initiative, Tim Howard and Clint Dempsey have collaborated with U.S. healthcare firm Abbott and Real Madrid on the Dream Team program to enhance the development pipeline in a nation still embracing soccer comprehensively.

Both USMNT icons have become respected analysts following successful domestic and international careers. Currently, they remain passionate about the game while continuing to contribute to its growth. Howard spoke with SI during the Gold Cup regarding his participation in Abbott Dream Team.

"Hopefully this isn't a unique opportunity, but it's remarkable to be chosen for training and traveling to perform before Real Madrid personnel. I told these young players I wished such an opportunity existed for me. There's a distinct energy and anxiety when you're in the spotlight and must deliver. It's wonderful seeing their expressions and witnessing their enthusiasm. The shared passion Abbott and I have for advancing the game in every aspect at every level nationwide is crucial.

"The sport's development exceeds what I imagined possible across numerous dimensions," Howard concluded.

The Premier League Summer Series resumes Saturday, July 26, launching the second edition of this preseason tournament. The initial 2023 event saw Chelsea claim victory, though it was suspended in 2024 due to disagreements between the league organization and participating clubs regarding broadcasting arrangements, according to The Athletic.