The first American to win the Champions League did so at a time when US soccer players were seen as little more than novelties
Three years ago, the US men’s team were watching the World Cup on television instead of playing in it. But with the 2022 edition in sight, things are looking much more encouraging. Christian Pulisic’s successive victories in the Champions League and Concacaf Nations League finals are symbolic of the team’s revival. He is far from alone though. Alongside him stand the likes of Giovanni Reyna, Weston McKennie, and Sergiño Dest, all of whom play for some of the best clubs in the world. This kind of success in Europe was unprecedented just five years ago for Americans, before Pulisic established himself as a young phenomenon at Borussia Dortmund.
But it wasn’t the first time we’ve seen an American lift the most coveted trophy in club soccer, nor is it the first time Dortmund have helped American soccer players break into European competition.
Related: Is the USMNT in danger of developing into a world-class outfit?
