Why Max Arfsten says USMNT's World Cup aspirations are 'bigger' than his own

Max Arfsten's selection to the USMNT for the World Cup marks a milestone that transcends a single game and season. The 25-year-old Crew defender was among 26 players named for the squad and traveled to Los Angeles to play at Sofi Stadium, 219 miles from his Fresno hometown. He earned his first national-team call-up in January 2025, and since then has earned 18 caps and contributed six goals or assists. In the group-stage opener, the United States defeated Paraguay 4-1, but Arfsten remained on the bench as an unused substitute. Since arriving at the official World Cup training base in Irvine on May 26, the intensity has been higher than he has ever experienced. The U.S. began the tournament with a substantial point to prove, and the Paraguay win boosted confidence ahead of matches against Australia on June 19 and Turkey on June 25. Arfsten says he wants to play and will contribute in whatever role the team needs, underscoring the broader goal of continued success. With the group stage continuing, the United States aims to top Group D and advance deeper into the tournament.