USMNT Star Jack McGlynn Sparks Outrage with Bold Houston Dynamo Celebration
Houston Dynamo midfielder and U.S. national team player Jack McGlynn created a milestone moment, though it wasn't entirely to his liking.
Before the 2025 MLS campaign began, McGlynn became the inaugural player in the league's history to be transferred between MLS clubs using the newly implemented player-for-cash mechanism when he moved from Philadelphia Union to Houston.
During Saturday's 1–1 stalemate against his previous team, however, he expressed his emotions clearly. Following his successful penalty conversion for the Dynamo, the 22-year-old gestured toward his jersey nameplate and planted a kiss on the club crest while maintaining eye contact with Union personnel and players watching nearby.
While the $2.1 million transaction created precedent before MLS's 30th campaign, McGlynn remained dissatisfied with the circumstances surrounding his departure. Speaking to GOAL recently, he revealed receiving no advance notice about the transfer, which separated him from the organization where he had developed.
"The dialogue with me? The consideration they demonstrated? It seemed completely absent," McGlynn expressed frustratedly. "The manner in which they managed everything was simply disrespectful. I'm grateful things worked out since I'm performing well in Houston. However, I genuinely wish the departure could have occurred under more amicable circumstances."
Among MLS's Premier Young Talents
Prior to his transfer, McGlynn had emerged as one of the league's promising young talents and appeared destined to be a cornerstone for the Union during their coaching transition from Jim Curtin to Bradley Carnell. Nevertheless, they chose differently, and weren't obligated to inform McGlynn about the transaction, with Houston simply acquiring his remaining contract.
This led him to Houston, where he has maintained his development as a pivotal player, though on a squad considerably less competitive than his Philadelphia departure. Following Saturday's encounter, the Dynamo occupy 21st place in MLS with 27 points, while the Union hold third position with 47.
Despite his team's difficulties, McGlynn's progress has remained consistent. He has recorded three goals and five assists this campaign, while also securing substantial playing time with the USMNT under manager Mauricio Pochettino during summer exhibitions and the Concacaf Gold Cup.
No Lingering Resentment
Nevertheless, he clarifies that his celebration wasn't directed against his former organization. Rather, it represented acknowledgment of Houston's confidence in him, having secured his services through a contract extension lasting until at least 2028.
"I maintain deep affection for Philadelphia and everything they provided me. It's the organization that developed me and offered me the opportunity to turn professional. I cherish that club and everyone associated with it. Therefore, kissing the Dynamo crest after scoring wasn't meant as criticism toward them," McGlynn explained post-match.
"It was more about demonstrating gratitude toward the Dynamo. They have contributed tremendously to my career. They honored me with a new contract, and they're investing considerable faith in me, so I wanted to demonstrate my happiness being here."
With the Union draw concluded, McGlynn and the Dynamo can now focus on their upcoming fixture as they face LA Galaxy on July 25, before beginning their 2025 Leagues Cup campaign against Liga MX's Tigres UANL.