USMNT defender Alex Freeman joins La Liga side Villarreal
Alex Freeman has joined La Liga side Villarreal in a transfer from MLS side Orlando City, both clubs confirmed Thursday.
The U.S. men’s national team right back will move for around $4 million with another $3 million in possible add-ons, per multiple reports. He has signed a contract with Villarreal through June 2032.
Orlando City will also retain a sell-on percentage in the event of a future transfer.
Freeman enjoyed a breakout 2025 campaign. The 21-year-old had only made three MLS appearances prior to the season, but he won Orlando’s starting right back role and immediately became one of the top fullbacks in the league.
The right back was named a MLS All-Star, earned a spot on the 2025 MLS Best XI and won the league’s Young Player of the Year award.
“He showed maturity and commitment at every level, rising from a young prospect to an MLS All-Star and one of the league’s top emerging talents. Watching his development up close has been incredibly rewarding for all of us at the club,’ said Ricardo Moreira, Orlando City general manager and sporting director.
‘We’re proud of everything Alex has accomplished here and wish him continued success as he takes this next step in his professional career.”
Freeman, the son of former Green Bay Packers wide receiver Antonio Freeman, earned his first USMNT cap in June and quickly became an important player under head coach Mauricio Pochettino.
Freeman made 13 appearances total for the USMNT in 2025, scoring two goals in the team’s 5-1 win over Uruguay on Nov. 19.
He appears to be a good bet to make the World Cup roster, but will need to hit the ground running in Spain to assure he doesn’t fall down the USMNT depth chart.
At Villarreal, Freeman will join a club that currently resides in fourth place in La Liga behind Barcelona, Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid.
