"An essential text for any fan who wants to take a journey into the U.S. game''s roots and ambitions. It reads like history but feels like a full-field press into our optimistic soccer future." --Gregg Berhalter, director of football and head coach, Chicago Fire; former U.S. Men''s National Team head coach "This book captures the heart, struggle, and progress of the men''s game. The chapters offer a sharp, honest look at how elite men''s soccer evolved across the nation, and what it will take to impress on the international stage.
" --Cobi Jones, 164 U.S. Men''s National Team Caps (all-time leader), three World Cups, @cobijones13, @cjfc13 " American Soccer Nation tells the full, dramatic story of how the world''s most popular sport took root in the USA. Discover the academies and blueprints that are finally producing elite American talent, and why the nation is now poised for a spectacular performance at the 2026 World Cup." --Mark McKenzie, current pro, Toulouse FC, Ligue 1, France "This book is like a hopeful cross into the hearts of American soccer fans. A well-told history about our gritty past and our potential future." --John Harkes, 90 Caps, two World Cups, technical director, McLean Youth Soccer, U.S.
Youth National Team Coach "This book explores the historical roots of the country''s rise, and illuminates the emergence of a new era of power and influence for the sport." --Brenden Aaronson, current pro, Leeds United, EPL, England "Mark Franek''s perspective from inside Philadelphia Union makes this book feel genuine, informed, and important. A great read for fans and players who care about the future of the American game." --Auston Trusty, current pro, Celtic FC, Scottish Premiership "A rare combination of rigorous reporting and compelling storytelling. And, if that''s not enough, it''s rooted in the DNA of America''s up-and-coming soccer stars!" --Jim Curtin, former head coach, Philadelphia Union, MLS " American Soccer Nation captures something I''ve always believed: our game in the U.S. has a story worth celebrating. This book showcases the resilience, ambition, and passion that has carried American soccer to this moment--not by accident, but through decades of real investment and belief.
Growing up in this system and now living it at the highest level, I know the future isn''t just promising--it''s already taking shape around us." --Quinn Sullivan, current pro, Philadelphia Union, MLS "Mark Franek''s American Soccer Nation is an engaging introduction to soccer''s long history in the United States. A timely and entertaining starting point for deeper discussion of the myriad topics associated with American soccer''s path toward its explosive growth today, this book is sure to become a classroom staple." --Ed Farnsworth, American soccer historian, writer, and editor, former board member and current communications director at the Society for American Soccer History (SASH) "A refreshing, in-depth book just in time for the 2026 World Cup, with insights from some top players and thought leaders. A must-read for fans ready to embrace the growing game of American soccer!" --Jack McGlynn, current pro, Houston Dynamo FC, MLS "This book rewrites the way American fans will understand their own soccer story. It''s bold, thoughtful, and deeply inspiring." --Alejandro Bedoya, 66 Caps, one World Cup, current captain of Philadelphia Union, MLS "This book will be well received by those of us who grew up with the game of soccer in America. Coaches, players, and fans will find that it captures the unique history of our journey to establish the passion, culture, and outcomes needed to compete internationally.
" --Michael Curry, veteran American soccer coach, administrator and advocate, including leadership roles with the United Soccer Coaches, YSC Academy, and the United Soccer Coaches Foundation, Inc. "As a former player and current content creator engaged in growing the sport of soccer in America, this book is a representation of the American soccer development system. And a reminder of our history, and what''s to come." --Raheem Taylor-Parkes, soccer content creator and media personality, GOAL USA, @Raheemovic_ "A beautifully written history of elite men''s soccer on American soil. Written from somebody who has a front-row seat, and everyday interaction with some of the upcoming talents and next generation of the U.S. Soccer Federation. I''m recommending it with full confidence to all my teammates, and all soccer fans across the globe!" --Paxten Aaronson, current pro, Colorado Rapids, MLS "Mark Franek is a gifted writer and educator who loves soccer! He brings these qualities to bear in American Soccer Nation , a beautifully woven story of the evolution of the beautiful game in America.
I thoroughly enjoyed it." --Eddie Mensah, former CEO, Right To Dream Football Academy, Ghana; former director of programs, Steppingstone Scholars Inc., US.