USMNT stars struggle to shine in the Bundesliga as competition heats up in Germany | OneFootball

American soccer is making its mark in the Bundesliga. With several U.S. players spread across Germany’s top clubs, it's clear that the league has become a proving ground for talent coming from MLS and U.S. college soccer. But does this presence translate into success, or are these players still struggling to establish themselves in Europe?

With names like Joe Scally, Gio Reyna, John Tolkin, and James Sands, American players continue their push to secure a spot in German soccer. However, their paths show that adaptation is far from easy.

Joe Scally: The definition of consistency

Borussia Mönchengladbach v Eintracht Frankfurt - Bundesliga | Max Ellerbrake - firo sportphoto/GettyImages

Among Americans in the Bundesliga, Joe Scally stands out as one of the most solid. The Borussia Mönchengladbach right-back has become a key piece in Gerardo Seoane’s system. At 22 years old, he has already played 20 matches this season, starting in 19.

Scally’s biggest advantage? Consistency. Unlike some of his compatriots who are still trying to make an impact, he has been a core part of Gladbach for four seasons and rarely leaves the starting lineup. His performances in the Bundesliga have made him a reliable name for future USMNT call-ups.

But how far can he go? His growth in German soccer still has room to expand, and Gladbach may only be a stepping stone to something bigger.

Gio Reyna: Talent vs. uncertainty

Holstein Kiel v Borussia Dortmund - Bundesliga | Stuart Franklin/GettyImages

If Scally represents consistency, then Gio Reyna is the opposite, a player with undeniable talent but plenty of question marks. The Borussia Dortmund attacking midfielder has long been seen as one of the brightest American stars in Europe, but his career has been a rollercoaster.

After a loan spell with Nottingham Forest last season, Reyna returned to Dortmund to fight for his place, but the numbers show he’s still struggling to find momentum. In 11 matches, he has started only once, scoring two goals.

Reyna’s challenge isn’t just about his technical ability — it’s also about competing for minutes in Dortmund’s deep squad. His skill is undeniable, but will that be enough to secure a regular role?

Lennard Maloney: A new chapter

Istanbul Basaksehir FK v 1. FC Heidenheim 1846 - UEFA Conference League 2024/25 League Phase MD5 | Ahmad Mora/GettyImages

Unlike the others, Lennard Maloney has taken a different route. A former Borussia Dortmund youth player, he made a name for himself at Heidenheim, where he quickly became a fan favorite and a midfield pillar.

His performances caught the eye of Mainz, who signed him in the January 2025 transfer window. Now, the big question is whether he can maintain that same level at his new club. In his last game, he remained an unused substitute, suggesting he might need time to earn his place.

Kevin Paredes: A season of redemption?

Morocco v United States: Men's Football Quarterfinal - Olympic Games Paris 2024: Day 7 | Marc Atkins/GettyImages

Kevin Paredes is facing a tough situation at Wolfsburg. After a promising 2023/24 season, where he played 28 matches and scored three goals, he has yet to step on the field this season due to a foot injury.

Time away from the pitch could slow his progress, especially in a club that needs attacking options. Once fit, he’ll have to fight for playing time and prove he’s more than just another promising prospect.

James Sands and John Tolkin: New challenges

James Sands, now at St. Pauli, and John Tolkin, at Holstein Kiel, are taking on the challenge of playing in Germany. Sands, after two short stints with Rangers, is trying to carve out a role in the Bundesliga, having played six matches so far.

Meanwhile, Tolkin, formerly of New York Red Bulls, is aiming to help Kiel avoid relegation. With just three games under his belt, he’s still adjusting to his new environment, but he made an impact in a crucial 2-2 draw against Bochum, playing the full 90 minutes.

Cole Campbell: The new face at Borussia Dortmund

Borussia Dortmund v Bayer 04 Leverkusen - Bundesliga | Jürgen Fromme - firo sportphoto/GettyImages

Among the young Americans in the Bundesliga, Cole Campbell is one of the most intriguing. Born in Houston, Texas, he joined the Borussia Dortmund academy in 2022 and was promoted to the senior team in 2024.

However, his first-team involvement has been minimal. While he has already made his Bundesliga debut, he was left out of the squad in the last round, indicating that his playing time will likely be limited for now.

Timothy Chandler and Jordan: Does experience still matter?

While younger players are trying to prove themselves, veterans like Timothy Chandler and Jordan are at different stages of their careers. Chandler, now 34, is in his 11th season at Eintracht Frankfurt and could be approaching the final stretch of his time in the Bundesliga.

Meanwhile, Jordan, the former Union Berlin striker, left Germany in January and joined Reims in France. His time in the Bundesliga had its moments, but in the end, it wasn’t enough to make a lasting impact.

Paxten Aaronson: A different path

Dutch EredivisieFC Utrecht v Almere City FC | ANP/GettyImages

Unlike the other players on this list, Paxten Aaronson is no longer in the Bundesliga. The Eintracht Frankfurt midfielder is currently on loan at Utrecht in the Dutch Eredivisie, following a previous loan stint at Vitesse Arnhem. He continues to search for the right opportunity to break into European soccer.

What’s next for Americans in the Bundesliga?

The growing presence of U.S. players in Germany shows how American soccer is evolving, but each player faces a unique battle to establish themselves.

While players like Joe Scally have found stability and become key starters, others, like Gio Reyna, are still trying to prove their worth in a competitive landscape. Meanwhile, younger talents like Cole Campbell need to fight for opportunities before they fade into the background.

Only time will tell if the Bundesliga remains a welcoming destination for USMNT players or if the league’s growing competition will make it harder for Americans to shine.