The 24 Best U24 American Goalkeepers

If you were to ask either the USWNT or USMNT fanbase about who the starting goalkeeper should be for the upcoming World Cup, brace yourself for the variety of answers you’ll receive. Gone are the days when Hope Solo and Tim Howard were unanimous picks. The lack of consensus is partly because of the plethora of encouraging prospects but mostly because of the lack of dominating performances from the top. And while it may take longer to integrate new faces into the national team - Aubrey Kingsbury didn’t receive her first cap until 30, despite winning two NWSL Goalkeeper of the Year awards - there are a number of fans who are so displeased with the veterans that they’re already willing to hand the keys to the car to the prospects.

Diving into the top U24 goalkeepers gives us an idea of what the rising talent pool looks like, as well as surveying where American goalkeepers are being developed. The following rankings are centered on a combination of current form and projected ability to succeed at the next level. Younger goalkeepers receive less of a bump for potential, as they’re largely unproven, while the older goalkeepers are nearing their finished level.

There are a few notable omissions, such as Julian Eyestone and Barcelona’s Spanish-American goalkeeper Diego Kochen. I have gone back and forth on this over the years but, as of right now, these lists only include goalkeepers who are at least 18 (as of February 2024) and have not turned 24 yet. Although starting for a professional side at such a young age is unquestionably an impressive accomplishment, ultimately there is too much development left ahead for a 17-year-old goalkeeper. Not to mention, a 17-year-old’s pathway to starting for the senior national team is close to a decade away.

Lastly, it’s worth noting that the federation is still short a National Goalkeeper Director. As previously reported on, the USSF had a goalkeeper director through 2005, whose responsibilities were centered on connecting all the efforts into a cohesive program that pointed players and coaches in the same direction. Without a full-time goalkeeper director, the country has defaulted into outsourcing goalkeeper development to whoever is most interested.

USWNT Prospects

1. Angelina Anderson, 22 - Angel City FC
2. Heather Hinz, 22 - Houston Dash
3. Halle Mackiewicz, 22 - Kansas City Current
4. Jordan Silkowitz, 23 - Kansas City Current #
5. Katherine Asman, 23 - Portland Thorns FC
6. Emmie Allen, 21 - Bay FC Trialist

7. Elizabeth Beardsley, 21 - Maryland
8. Macy Enneking, 23 - Iowa
9. Hensley Hancuff, 23 - North Carolina Courage
10. Nadia Cooper, 21 - Washington State
11. Neeku Purcell, 20 - UCLA
12. Alli Davis, 20 - New Mexico

13. Stephanie Sparkowski, 21 - Michigan
14. Nona Reason, 20 - Clemson
15. Tyler McCamey, 21 - Princeton
16. Leah Freeman, 22 - Duke
17. Marisa Bova, 23 - North Carolina Courage
18. Mia Justus, 21 - Texas

19. Marzia Josephson, 23 - Kentucky
20. Bella Hollenbach, 20 - Missouri
21. Megan Plaschko, 22 - TCU
22. Ryan Campbell, 22 - UCLA
23. Ashley Naylor, 22 - Notre Dame
24. Madison White, 23 - Racing Louisville

# - on loan with Brisbane Roar (Australia.1)

Bill says: The pathway to the NWSL has gone from a one-lane interstate to a complex, winding system where some roads lead fade into dead ends while others go directly to the top. Our best goalkeepers continue to explore creative routes like attending non-traditional college powerhouses, spending time in foreign leagues, or leaving college early like UNC product Emmie Allen. We’re still a long way off from a truly merit-based system but it is encouraging to see “unconventional” routes getting into the mix with goalkeeping development.

Another wrinkle - or potentially life raft - enters the scene with USL’s Super League, set to kick off in fall 2024. Will the second division one league be a serious factor in helping goalkeepers reach the NT or will it just devolve into a forgotten experiment? It’s tough to say at this point but the level of talent will be one to watch. With the Super League running fall-to-spring, transitioning from league to league will be extremely difficult but there’s always leftover talent that could compile a competitive league with ease.

Stylistically, most top goalkeepers are still hovering around the “tall and cautious” area, although there are some breakouts like Heather Hinz and Halle Mackiewicz who are willing to be a bit more front-footed. Don’t expect that to change any time soon but we should see a continued increase in young goalkeepers’ confidence with the ball. Long ago are the days where goalkeepers don’t take their own goal kicks but there’s still a much higher ceiling with playing through a goalkeeper to maintain possession.

The pathway to the USWNT is still heavily tilted towards the collegiate power five conferences developing goalkeepers but it’s an interesting era that we are walking into for 2024 with all the potential potential swirling in the air.

USMNT Prospects

1. Chris Brady, 19 - Chicago Fire
2. Gabriel Slonina, 19 - Chelsea FC #
3. Antonio Carrera, 19 - FC Dallas
4. Carlos dos Santos, 23 - Inter Miami
5. Gavin Beavers, 18 - Real Salt Lake
6. Roman Celentano, 23 - FC Cincinnati

7. Andrew Rick, 18 - Philadelphia Union II
8. Ethan Wady, 22 - Millwall FC
9. Nicholas Holliday, 18 - Crown Legacy FC
10. Brian Schwake, 22 - Castellón
11. Eryk Słowikowski, 18 - Venezia FC
12. Vicente Reyes, 20 - Norwich U21

13. John Pulskamp, 22 - Sporting Kansas City
14. Eric De La Cerda, 22 - Free Agent %
15. Alex Borto, 20 - Fulham U21s
16. Blake Kelly, 18 - Notre Dame
17. Wyatt Nelson, 18 - UCLA
18. Stellan Sakamoto, 19 - Querétaro U23

19. Emmanuel Ochoa, 18 - San Jose Earthquakes
20. Patrick Schulte, 22 - Columbus Crew
21. Chituru Odunze, 21 - Charlotte FC
22. Fred Emmings, 20 - Minnesota 2
23. Brooks Thompson, 21 - Hartford Athletic
24. Hunter Sulte, 21 - Portland Timbers

# - on loan with the Eupen (Belgium.1)
% - last with San Jose Earthquakes

Bill says: The ongoing problem of few twenty-year-olds having serious traction continues. Every “US Prospects to Watch” list is littered with teenage goalkeepers but the 20-24 range is - and has been for many years - barren of goalkeepers that give fans confidence. Unfortunately, this list is no different. Although MLS darlings (most notably Celentano and Schulte) continue to have success within the league, it’s difficult to see them jump to a higher level when Turner, Steffen, and Horvath struggle to shine even in England’s second division. And briefly scanning over at Slonina in Belgium, there are very few who think the potential future number one for the US will ever don a Chelsea blue. The “tall and cautious” mindset is dying out a little more quickly on the men’s side when compared to the women’s game, but overall American goalkeepers are still a bit behind when it comes to embracing the totality of the game. Somewhat surprisingly, success in MLS as a goalkeeper is less valuable now than it was 10-20 years ago.

For our young goalkeepers, Brady, Carrera, and Rick stand out with a nice blend of athleticism yet don’t want to plant their heels completely on the goal line for 90 minutes. All three are currently taking the newly minted route: MLS Next Pro. While we’ll still see goalkeepers come through the collegiate ranks, many young goalkeepers will get wide-eyed when they hear they could land a professional contract with the reserve team. Despite popular belief, plenty of goalkeepers are more than happy to forego their collegiate eligibility for a chance to play professionally. While MLS teams will also continue to rob local clubs of their top players to push them into MLS Next/MLS Next Pro, the question remains: Can goalkeepers continue serious traction after turning twenty or will they plateau like the rest of their predecessors? If most MLS teams aren’t going to throw first-time minutes to their young goalkeepers while simultaneously devaluing any accomplishments in lower leagues, it makes the pathway for goalkeepers in their early 20s difficult to conceptualize.

Seven Goalkeepers in Europe with Long-Term NWSL Potential

This article is a guest-submitted article by a writer wishing to stay anonymous. The post was edited by Bill Reno. Cover photo belongs to Arsenal FC.

For many goalkeepers based abroad, a new season is beginning, with all the associated hopes for personal achievement and team glory. Other players are deep into the schedule, hoping to grasp silverware or avoid the turmoil of relegation. As is customary for the position, a single heroic moment or blunder could forever become etched into club lore. While the quality in Europe can vary compared to the National Women’s Soccer League, there are several intriguing talents plying their respective trades and building careers across the Old Continent. 

With most clubs carrying two or three goalkeepers on the roster, there are few domestic opportunities for match time. After several years in college, gaining professional experience is essential, after which a move could be made to the NWSL. Here are five European-based players to watch with the potential to climb the ladder. 

Getty Images

Kaylan Marckese, Arsenal (England) 

After spending an underwhelming debut professional season with NJ/NY Gotham FC, the former Florida Gator has carved out quite the burgeoning career in Europe. Following a season at Icelandic outfit Selfoss, which included claiming the Women’s Football Super Cup, Marckese moved to HB Køge. She claimed the starting job and led Svanerne (The Swans) to consecutive Kvindeliga titles.

Her performances drew the attention of 15-time domestic champions Arsenal, who signed the 24-year-old on a permanent contract. She competed twice against the Gunners last season in the UEFA Women’s Champions League. Her new manager, Jonas Eidevall, expects her to “bring real quality to [the] squad” and is “ready for the challenge of playing in England.”

Arsenal finished second in the table last season with Austrian international Manuela Zinsberger making 33 appearances. She should be the assumed starter again, although Marckese will have ample opportunities as a backup. The new signing is expected to “add competition to the squad.”

Marckese has a solid, powerful frame that allows her to handle physical challenges on crosses. While lacking explosive athleticism, the 5’11” goalkeeper possesses a calm nature and is often in the perfect position to make a save, more than capable of covering the entire area. Contrary to the typical American player, she utilizes her whole body to make stops, unafraid to kick out her legs on low, driven shots. 

Marckese was on the fringes of the national team program in her youth, earning an invitation to a U-19 camp in 2015. While distant from a senior call-up, there is a compelling composure to the nature of her game – a no-frills steadiness that is often embodied by reliable back-ups. If able to earn regular playing time and claim the number one role at Arsenal, she is on an easily charted upward trajectory with an unknown ceiling and young enough to still reach those heights.

Peter Sonander/SPP/Shutterstock

Amanda “Mandy” McGlynn, Piteå IF (Sweden) 

Considered one of the top collegiate prospects in the 2020 NWSL Draft, Gotham FC selected McGlynn following four decorated seasons at Virginia Tech. The Jacksonville, Florida native set school records for shutouts and goals against average, while earning an array of All-Conference and All-American accolades. Her professional career began with a slow start, as she made a mere single appearance across two seasons.

In December, Gotham announced that the goalkeeper was moving to Piteå IF in the Swedish Damallsvenskan on a one-year contract. The American club would “retain her NWSL playing rights until the 2024 preseason.” McGlynn was excited for the opportunity to become a “more all-around” player.

Piteå is currently lodged in the middle of the Swedish table, with McGlynn having played in every match. She is gaining the necessary experience and impressing local media with her performances. “Sharp” is the most frequently used description, as her athleticism is rescuing points and helping the club steal results.

McGlynn is a solid shot-stopper with strong propulsion on her jumps and dives, having the mental presence to push the ball away without surrendering cheap rebounds. Her form and footwork are excellent, which sets her up to be in the right position. She displays the ability to recover on crosses, deflections, and loose balls in the final third, making heroic sprints across the line that culminates with an intelligent kick-out or fingertip save. 

As an international, McGlynn was a frequent inclusion for the United States at the youth level. She was in goal at the 2018 CONCACAF Women’s U-20 Championship and on the roster for the ensuing World Cup. Her most recent call-up was an invitation to a U-23 camp, but perhaps her time in Sweden could lead back to the NWSL and the senior squad.

Photo belongs to Isabel Cutileiro

Katelin Talbert, Benfica (Portugal) 

One of the year’s best stories, Talbert signed with Benfica during the winter and led the historic outfit to the Campeonato Nacional Feminino title. The 23-year-old hit the ground running and established a long shutout streak, surrendering a mere four goals in eight appearances. She made a series of stunning saves in the deciding match against Sporting CP, including a confident stop on a penalty attempt. Despite her brief tenure, the players’ union named her Goalkeeper of the Year for the 2021/22 season.

Talbert is something of a Srinivasa Ramanujan-type, lacking the tutelage of “a dedicated goalkeeper coach” prior to her time in Portugal. She played collegiate ball at Humboldt State University (now known as California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt) from 2016 through 2019, a Division II institution nestled into the northwest of the Golden State. After graduating, she played with California Storm and trained with OL Reign before joining Fimleikafélag Hafnarfjarðar in the second tier of Iceland and making 18 total appearances. Following a few months of training with West Ham, her winding career journey landed with Benfica – an overnight sensation years in the making.

Almost impossible to beat from distance, Talbert has thrived in Portugal’s professional environment, improving her “technique and positioning.” She describes her confident style as “making difficult flying saves,” occasionally “jumping like a crazy person” while also charging out of the box to beat attackers to long balls. Stopping penalty attempts is an asset, possessing the composure and intelligence to read the opponent’s body. Her composed distribution allows her to receive hard passes from teammates and select the proper option when under pressure.

Photo from the Kansas City Star

Carly Nelson, Nordsjælland (Denmark) 

Nelson has taken an interesting journey through the ranks, enduring noted struggles that included jaw surgery that required the use of a medication tube while competing with the Utah Royals FC reserve team. After capping a four-year career at the University of Utah with All-Pac-12 and All-Pacific Region selection, the 24-year-old signed a short-term contract with OL Reign in advance of the 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup. The club gave her another deal through the end of the ensuing Fall Series.

Nelson then moved to expansion side Kansas City Current. In her sole appearance, she earned a shutout in a 0-0 draw against North Carolina Courage, an experience described as “a dream come true.” Her remaining time at the club would last a total of one month, being sent on loan to Nordsjælland of the Danish Kvindeligaen.

During her first season in Europe, Nelson featured in 23 matches. The goalkeeper “settled in really well,” utilizing the club’s development resources and “fantastic coaches,” which allowed her to “feel a greater understanding and attention to the game.” She earned Team of the Week honors an impressive four times. Following her release from Kansas City this summer, Nordsjælland converted the loan into a permanent deal.

Nelson’s preference can be to hang back, waiting to make a save, but she will charge off the line at a sharp angle when necessary. The Nordsjælland back line hangs her out to dry from time to time, allowing the opponent to penetrate far too deep into the defensive third, which forces her into emergency mode. Her footwork, notably horizontal shuffling, proves useful in all situations and, of course, on penalty attempts. There is little hesitation when challenging for crosses, often absorbing heavy contact but still ending up with the ball. 

Nordsjælland opened the season with a 3-0 loss to FC Thy-Thisted Q, which could be a sign of trouble ahead. Nelson will have to continue to earn points for her club, the opportunity to earn accolades with heroic play. While competing for champions is preferable, grinding in the mid-table can provide necessary experience for a goalkeeper looking to develop as a professional. 

Photo from Arkansas State University

Megan McClure, KFF Vllaznia Shkodër (Albania) 

One of the most recent Americans to head overseas, McClure registered five seasons at Arkansas State, setting several school records. During her final years, she was named Sun Belt Conference Goalkeeper of the Year. Despite training with Racing Louisville, the allure of continental competition beckoned.

McClure joined Albanian powerhouse KFF Vllaznia Shkodër, which has claimed nine consecutive National Football Championships and Women’s Cups. The Kuq e Blutë (Red & Blues) are in the qualifying rounds of this year’s UEFA Champions League, starting with a match against the winner between Breznica and Spartak Myjava. The new goalkeeper has the opportunity to earn playing time and make an immediate impact. While not venturing to a destination league or toiling away as a back-up at a more prestigious club, this is a shrewd decision to start the beginning of a career in order to gain a toehold in the professional world.

Perhaps what stands out most about McClure is her ability to make fast-twitch saves, quickly shifting into a dive to shots from close range and reacting when screened. She also has solid hands and is unafraid to challenge for a cross in a crowded box. While many goalkeepers struggle to make decisions or react under pressure, the 23-year-old possesses the presence of mind to kick out when forced into an awkward movement in the goalmouth or in the midst of a breakaway, thus avoiding unnecessary blunders. 

Photo belongs to Oregon State University

Bridgette Skiba, HB Køge (Denmark) 

Currently building a dynasty in Denmark, HB Køge needed to rebound from the departure of Marckese and made a strong statement with her replacement. Dipping back into the American pool, the club added Skiba on a two-year contract. The “ambitious and brave” goalkeeper was most recently on the books with the Chicago Red Stars in the NWSL, signed as a “replacement player” in July.

While a standout with Oregon State, she was unable to latch onto an NWSL roster and faced the tough decision to wait for the next chance or look elsewhere. With limited opportunities in the United States, Skiba was able to accomplish her “big dream” of playing in Europe. The new signing “feels comfortable” at Køge and earned the first professional minutes of her career, starting and earning a shutout in a 4-0 victory over FC Thy-Thisted Q.  

Skiba is an intriguing player who should continue to develop with experience. She gets to the ground quickly and is rarely beaten on low shots. An impressive wingspan allows her to cover the entire goalmouth when fully extended, reaching high to stop balls destined for the top shelf. As with many goalkeepers enjoying their first extended spell in a professional environment, her athleticism and physical attributes should improve with structured training and a committed program, which should enable the 22-year-old to push for a higher level after a few seasons in Denmark. 

Photo belongs to University of Nebraska

Aubrei Corder, IFK Kalmar (Sweden) 

On her third European club, Corder could be considered something of a veteran. Following four years and 80 appearances at the University of Nebraska, she moved abroad and started her professional career with Poland’s KKPK Medyk Konin. After a runner-up finish, the coronavirus pandemic forced an early return home. The next stop was at Apollon Limassol in the Cypriot First Division.

Next, she went to IFK Kalmar, then in Sweden’s second-tier Elitettan. In her first season, Corder made 22 appearances, leading the club to a runner-up finish and promotion. Local media considered her a standout and the lynchpin of a stout defense. The club signed the league’s Goalkeeper of the Year to a contract extension in advance of the promotion adventure, with the adopted country “a good environment to grow.”

The adjustment to the first-tier Damallsvenskan has been steep, with Kalmar currently at 10th place in the 14-team table, a mere two points above the relegation-playoff spot. Compounding matters, Corder underwent knee surgery during the offseason and dealt with a collision-induced concussion in March but was able to maintain the number one role. Despite struggling with the occasional error, her play is described as “fantastic,” often forced to play the hero. The club is building for the future, with the West Virginia native expected to be a key part of the roster moving forward.

At 6’, Corder has the height to cover the crossbar and cuts down angles when fast-breaking opponents maraud into the final third. She performs the necessary lateral movements and rapidly shifts into a diving motion, displaying impressive athleticism when called into action. Teammates praise her as being “focused, always doing the right thing, and commanding the penalty area.”

Enduring a challenging season with a club punching above its weight can be the best learning experience for a goalkeeper. While being shelled is far from ideal, the best players will steal points and make a real difference in avoiding relegation. Corder is likely to emerge from Sweden in a strong mental state with the improved form that comes from age and experience. 

The 24 Best U24 American Goalkeepers

cover photo from Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images

If you were to ask either the USWNT or USMNT fanbase about who the starting goalkeeper should be for the upcoming World Cup, brace yourself for the variety of answers you’ll receive. Gone are the days when Hope Solo and Tim Howard were unanimous picks, half because of the plethora of encouraging prospects and half because of underwhelming performances from the top. And while it may take longer to integrate new faces into a national team camp - Aubrey Kingsbury didn’t receive her first cap until 30, despite winning two Goalkeeper of the Year awards from the best league in the world - eventually our national teams will look to supplant the current starter with a younger goalkeeper.

Diving into the top U24 goalkeepers gives us an idea of what the rising talent pool looks like, as well as surveys where American goalkeepers are being developed. The following rankings are centered on a combination of current form and projected ability to succeed at the next level.

There are a few notable omissions, such as Real Salt Lake’s Gavin Beavers and Barcelona’s Spanish-American goalkeeper Diego Kochen. I have gone back and forth on this over the years but, as of right now, these lists only include goalkeepers who are at least 18 (as of May 2022) and have not turned 24 yet. Although starting for a professional side at such a young age is unquestionably an impressive accomplishment, ultimately I’ve never felt comfortable grouping 17-year-old goalkeepers with 23-year-olds. There is too much development left ahead of them at 17 years old and rarely does hype at 17 translate into elite success down the line. Not to mention, a 17-year-old’s pathway to starting for the senior national team is close to a decade away.

USWNT Prospects

1. Mandy McGlynn, 23 - Piteå IF (Sweden.1)
2. Shelby Hogan, 23 - Portland Thorns FC
3. Angelina Anderson, 21 - California
4. Hillary Beall, 23 - Racing Louisville
5. Bridgette Skiba, 22 - Chicago Red Stars
6. Mia Justus, 19 - Florida State
7. Macy Enneking, 21 - Iowa
8. Ruthie Jones, 21 - Duke

9. Heather Hinz, 20 - South Carolina
10. Claudia Dickey, 22 - OL Reign
11. Laurel Ivory, 22 - OL Reign
12. Nadia Cooper, 19 - Washington State
13. Hensley Hancuff, 21 - Gotham FC
14. Jordan Silkowitz, 22 - Iowa State
15. Katherine Asman, 21 - Penn State
16. Cayla White, 21 - Virginia

17. Marisa Bova, 22 - North Carolina Courage
18. Mackenzie Wood, 22 - Notre Dame
19. Emily Puricelli, 20 - Saint Louis
20. Kaylie Collins, 23 - Orlando Pride
21. Leah Freeman, 20 - Oregon
22. Anna Smith, 22 - USC
23. Katelin Talbert, 23 - Benfica (Portugal.1)
24. Tatum Sutherland, 21 - SMU

Bill says: While the Power 5-to-NWSL is still the main pathway for young prospects, it’s encouraging to see more and more unconventional routes being included in goalkeeper development. The midwest is showing well, with Iowa (Enneking), Iowa State (Silkowitz), Purdue (Bova), and St. Louis (Puricelli) producing strong NWSL draft candidates. On the professional side, McGlynn and Talbert left for Europe at the start of the year, both looking for playing time at a decent level of play. Currently, we have strong play from older goalkeepers in Denmark, France, Iceland, and Norway, helping open more doors for future goalkeepers down the line. Additionally, the start of the USL Super League in 2023 could provide another pathway to the NWSL, if things go according to plan.

Despite the positive movements, there’s still not much consensus on the top prospects for the USWNT, nor what college has earned the title of “Goalkeeper U”. Although changes could happen in the future, the continued crowdsourcing of goalkeeper development has been adequate in producing talent for the senior team thus far, even if the workload is only loosely coordinated from a higher structure.

USMNT Prospects

1. Ethan Wady, 20 - Chelsea U23s
2. Gabriel Slonina, 18 - Chicago Fire
3. Chris Brady, 18 - Chicago Fire
4. Carlos dos Santos, 21 - Inter Miami
5. Brooks Thompson, 20 - Philadelphia Union II
6. Jeff Dewsnup, 18 - Real Salt Lake
7. Antonio Carrera, 18 - FC Dallas
8. John Pulskamp, 21 - Sporting Kansas City

9. Hector Holguin, 21 - Santos Laguna (Mexico.1)
10. Rocco Rios Novo, 19 - Club Atlético Lanús II (Argentina.1) @
11. Zion Suzuki, 19 - Urawa Red Diamon (Japan.1)
12. Alex Borto, 18 - Fulham
13. Matt Freese, 23 - Philadelphia Union
14. Benny Diaz, 23 - Club Tijuana #
15. Abraham Rodriguez, 19 - Colorado Rapids
16. Taishi Nozawa, 19 - FC Tokyo (Japan.1) %

17. Chituru Odunze, 19 - Leicester City U23s
18. Tomas Romero, 21 - Los Angeles FC
19. Brian Schwake, 20 - Livingston FC (Scotland.1) &
20. Fred Emmings, 18 - Minnesota United
21. Daniel Peluffo-Wiese, 19 - Unterhaching (Germany.3)
22. Nicolas Hansen, 20 - Swansea City U23s
23. Vicente Reyes, 18 - Atlanta United 2
24. Xavier Valdez, 18 - Houston Dynamo

@ - on loan with Atlanta United
# - on loan with the Oakland Roots
% - on loan with Iwate Grulla Morioka (Japan.2)
& - on loan with Edinburgh City (Scotland.4)

Bill says: There is plenty of room for excitement with certain names on this list but the lack of talent between the ages of 21-24 is still concerning. The US has had too many goalkeepers lose traction at that age over the past two decades, despite many having momentum from successful U17 or U20 World Cup runs. Naturally, all eyes are on Slonina with his strong start with the Fire, but if it doesn’t continue in five years, then it won’t amount for much.

When considering the level of play for the American leagues, one cannot deny how much it’s improved since 1996, not to mention the continued expansion process to give more opportunities for goalkeepers. However, Horvath and Steffen are strong reminders that the pressure to perform in Europe doesn’t parallel America's. For young goalkeepers, minutes with professional outlets are great, but if it doesn’t translate to being able to perform in the top leagues, then we’re still not on track with matching the international level for goalkeeper development.

The Future of the USMNT: The 15 Best U24 American Goalkeepers

cover photo from Stanford Athletics

After surveying the up-and-coming goalkeepers in the women’s game last month, we return to dive into the USMNT goalkeeping pool. Building off the previous scouting reports, the following goalkeepers are given a current and projected ranking, as well as evaluating the goalkeepers on the same nine categories. Although the limited ratings do not completely encompass the position, the brief survey and following paragraph for each goalkeeper is intended to give a decent foundation for new observers in understanding each goalkeeper’s approach to the position.

A 1-7 scale is used to gauge each goalkeeper. A “7” is a world-class level, a “4” is a low professional or high Division I collegiate goalkeeper, and a “1” is dreadful. Numbers in green are the current rankings for each goalkeeper, while the numbers in gold are projections of where they are expected to end up. Definitions for each category can be found at the bottom.

The 15 Best U24 American Goalkeepers

1. CJ dos Santos (Benfica) - 19

Scouting Report: CJ dos Santos embraces the Benfica spirit of playing a high line at all costs. Constantly active in the offensive build, dos Santos is also quick to snuff out through balls and breakaways. Although he can get a little over-reliant on using his speed to solve counters on goal, which can make him impatient with slow attacks in the final third, his ability to read the game and explosiveness help him cover more of the goal than goalkeepers who solely rely on their speed.

2. Rocco Rios Novo (Club Atletico Lanus) - 18

Scouting Report: The former U17 Argentine goalkeeper, Rocco Rios Novo, has a fair amount of parallels to Zack Steffen. Playing with an impressive amount of poise, Novo lets the game come to him and never looks overwhelmed with the odds aren’t in his favor. Novo was born in Los Angeles but he’s already played for Argentina’s U17 national team multiple times, including their ninth-place finish in the 2019 U17 World Cup, making his switch to the US very unlikely.

3. Andrew Thomas (Stanford University) - 21

Scouting Report: Andrew Thomas joined Stanford University after spending a year inside Watford FC’s youth academy. Thomas gained some notoriety after his penalty heroics against Seattle and Clemson in last year’s national tournament before looking a little out of sorts against Georgetown in the semifinal. Thomas’s issues will rarely ever be found in his prep work, possessing a fantastic eye for the play and an impeccable balance to respond to any situation, but his athleticism’s ceiling will likely dictate just how far his career can go.

4. Victor Vidal (Lleida Esportiu) - 20

Scouting Report: Victor Vidal instills many common traits of Spanish goalkeepers: high mobility and an eagerness to get involved with building out of the back. As of recent, Vidal has struggled with playing time, earning only spare minutes over the past couple of years. If Vidal can get a heavier commitment from a club, he could go from just another goalkeeper in Spain’s lower divisions to a top prospect for the USMNT.

5. Ethan Wady (Chelsea) - 18

Scouting Report: Ethan Wady clocks in at 6’4” and he looks every bit of it. Wady is at the bottom of a long depth chart, featuring youth internationals from Croatia, England, Finland, and Ivory Coast ahead of him. As for any goalkeeper blessed with height, cleaning up footwork to take advantage of his imposing frame. If Wady can make the tiny, micro-movements with ease, he should have a bright future ahead of him.

6. Brooks Thompson (Sporting Kansas City) - 18

Scouting Report: Brooks Thompson has long been rumored to be a top prospect within higher up goalkeeping circles. This season, Thompson played four of the first six matches for SKC II and has yet to look out of place. Thompson shows signs of a career beyond MLS but mobility and explosiveness don’t always come naturally for 6’4” goalkeepers. If SKC can continue to develop Thompson, they may be looking at a decent transfer fee sooner than later.

7. John Pulskamp (Sporting Kansas City) - 19

Scouting Report: John Pulskamp trialed with Bournemouth AFC in the summer of 2018 before returning stateside with Sporting Kansas City. Pulskamp’s 2019 campaign with SKC II wasn’t pretty - conceding 34 goals in 14 games and finishing dead last the goals saved above replacement - but the shelling didn’t seem to waver Pulskamp’s confidence. Building off a strong resolve will carry any goalkeeper far but now Pulskamp must increase his “bubble” in terms of how much of the goal he can cover if he’s wanting to make a run as an MLS starter.

8. Chituru Odunze (Leicester City) - 17

Scouting Report: Chituru Odunze broke onto the scene last year by signing for Leicester City and taking over the number one spot at the 2019 U17 World Cup. Odunze’s size is hard to overlook but there are many questions surrounding his non-shot stopping attributes. Striking a ball seems a bit of a chore for Odunze and handling crosses isn’t his specialty, despite the size. Leicester City should be an ideal environment for Odunze to round out his game but he has some work ahead of him.

9. Damian Las (Fulham) - 18

Scouting Report: Damian Las left the Chicago Fire for Fulham last fall and was regularly featured with Fulham’s U18s right up until the break for COVID-19. Las has a good eye for the play and never backs down from a challenge but speed of play has been a thorn in the 18-year-old’s side. Las has all the tools to be successful but the last checkbox is finding the rhythm of the game’s demands and responding to them in correct time.

10. Luca Lewis (Torino) - 19

Scouting Report: Luca Lewis has spent time with the US U20s and had some notable backing from Torino over the past two years, getting plenty of playing time with the Italian club’s youth teams. While Lewis isn’t error-prone, he has a knack for the dramatics and making chances on goal seem more complicated than need be. Lewis’ ceiling will follow his ability to make more of the game look manageable and instilling some calmness in handling what the opposition has to offer.

11. Evan Louro (Tampa Bay Rowdies) - 24

Scouting Report: New York Red Bulls fans should be familiar with Louro, who joined the Red Bulls academy in 2008. For close to a decade, many assumed Louro would be the answer for the post-Robles era but instead the Michigan alum is making waves for himself in Tampa. Louro has the unique ability of possessing a game-changing save but the consistency of executing it is still in question. Louro was number one in goals saved above replacement in USL action last year so his time until he arrives in MLS is less a matter of “if” but “when”.

12. Nicholas Defreitas-Hansen (Everton) - 19

Scouting Report: Nicholas Defreitas-Hansen is easily the most rounded out goalkeeper in the crop and his projection follows suit. There are pros and cons to being so even across the board, but perhaps the most concerning aspect is going under the radar without having any standout quality. On the other hand, some managers want a goalkeeper who can cover every aspect of the game. Defreitas-Hansen’s future is only made cloudier by the fact that he’s represented both the US’s and Denmark’s youth national teams.

13. JT Marcinkowski (San Jose Earthquakes) - 23

Scouting Report: JT Marcinkowski has played at virtually every level for the USYNTs but his time since leaving Georgetown University has been a tumultuous one. Marcinkowski is extremely quick and handles crosses well (a rare trait for a USYNT goalkeeper) but seems to get tied up on atypical situations. Too often it feels like Marcinkowski is getting beat by goals that aren’t outright howlers but are ones he’s more than capable of saving. Marcinkowski looks clean from shots atop the 18 but outside of that it’s a gray area.

14. Justin Vom Steeg (Los Angeles Galaxy) - 23

Scouting Report: Justin Vom Steeg is at a point where he’s due for more responsibility. At 23, if Vom Steeg has any aspirations for playing beyond MLS, he doesn’t need to be playing against teenagers anymore. Vom Steeg is another goalkeeper with all the tools but his decision making can be spotty at times. If Vom Steeg can find a good balance between timid and tense and continue to push his ceiling, he should be able to make a run at an MLS starting spot.

15. Jonathan Klinsmann (Free Agent) - 23

Scouting Report: At the start of the month, it was quietly announced that Jonathan Klinsmann would not be returning to his Swiss club, St. Gallen. Klinsmann’s career has felt like one step forward, one step backward and this exit doesn’t help Klinsmann’s momentum. Klinsmann’s next step will be an interesting one but his chances at getting to an MLS-equivalent level seem to be closing quickly.

Technical

• Footwork, Angle Play – Efficiency in micro-adjustments, balance, and angles taken vs. shooter

• Hands – The goalkeeper’s ability to hold shots, prevent easy rebounds, and drop crosses

• Distribution – Success with distribution from throws, balls from ground, and punts

Athleticism

• Post-to-Post time – Acceleration speed for goalkeepers’ forward and lateral (post-to-post) movement

• Explosiveness – A goalkeeper’s ability to cover the goal width as well as reaction speed. A good “shot-stopper” will have high explosiveness and footwork ratings

• Breakaways –  Success in 1v1 situations and generally handling through balls

Tactical

• Crossing – Comfortability with incoming aerial service on crosses, free kicks, and corners

• Improvisation – A goalkeeper’s success can solve an unfamiliar situation.

• Consistency – How often a goalkeeper is playing to their top ability. Inversely it takes into account how often a goalkeeper gives up a soft goal. A “clutch” goalkeeper will have a high consistency rating as well.