A promising young athlete is poised to make a significant transatlantic shift to compete in Europe, as Orlando City’s emerging player, Alex Freeman, finalized a $7 million transfer to the Spanish LaLiga club Villarreal.
Freeman, whose current MLS contract expires following the 2026 campaign, is joining Estadio de la Cerámica to integrate into the El Submarino Amarillo squad led by Marcelino, where they aim to contend for a spot in the Champions League. Orlando City will also benefit from a future sell-on clause.
This 21-year-old United States Men’s National Team defender has distinguished himself among the league’s top young players in Major League Soccer, initially joining the first team at Inter&Co Stadium in the 2023 season and then solidifying his position as a regular starter under Óscar Pareja in 2025.
Without a doubt, Freeman stood out as a premier defender in MLS last season, securing distinctions such as All-Star and MLS Best XI recognition, in addition to being named MLS Young Player of the Year, having scored six goals in 38 matches across various competitions.
As a prospective starter for the 2026 World Cup, Freeman has represented the Stars and Stripes in 15 international appearances, notably scoring two goals in a 5-1 friendly victory over Uruguay just this November.
📸 Megan Briggs – 2025 Getty Images
