Patrick Agyeman’s Unique Journey to the World Cup

ATLANTA — The U.S. men’s national soccer team, which has often faced challenges in finding strong strikers, now boasts three solid candidates for the World Cup, all of whom are currently scoring well in Europe.

Among them, Patrick Agyeman’s journey stands out for its uniqueness.

His path has taken him from the NCAA Division III ranks to the physically demanding England Championships, landing him now on the cusp of a World Cup spot with Team USA. It’s quite the transformation.

“Right now, my focus is on doing my best alongside these players and just enjoying the moment,” Agyeman shared, reflecting on his five goals scored in 12 appearances for the national team in 2025. “Of course, I aim to work hard and give my all while we’re here.”

He added, “Returning to the Championship, I’m just trying to take things step by step. It’s been a year of keeping my head down and working hard, and I’d love to continue that until the season wraps up—and perhaps into the World Cup.”

The World Cup is set to take place in the U.S. this summer, and 25-year-old Agyeman is vying for a spot on the team.

But this isn’t a journey he’s taking alone.

His competitors include Folarin Balogun, who has netted 13 goals for AS Monaco in Ligue 1, and Ricardo Pepi, also scoring 13 times for PSV Eindhoven and rumored to be moving to Fulham in the English Premier League.

Additionally, Coventry City’s leading scorer, Haji Wright, was part of the squad until an injury opened a door for Agyeman.

“It’s encouraging to see the guys performing well,” Agyeman noted. “Competition is always intense on the national team, with plenty of top-tier players, and I just focus on what I can control and keep pushing myself. Being selected would mean a lot.”

Unlike Balogun, who developed his skills at Arsenal, Agyeman’s rise has been more independent. He found success through Eastern Connecticut State University at DIII level and then moved to Rhode Island and the USL League Two’s Western Mass Pioneers—transitions quite distant from the World Cup scene.

Nevertheless, getting drafted by Charlotte in 2023 allowed him to showcase his talent in MLS for two and a half seasons, paving his way to Derby County. He’s off to a promising start in the English Championship, racking up 10 goals, and feels optimistic about maintaining this momentum in upcoming games against Belgium and Portugal.

“Coming to England was an adjustment for sure, but I feel I’m developing both as a player and a person,” Agyeman remarked. “The growth I’m experiencing applies here as well.”

Tim Ream, Agyeman’s former teammate from Charlotte and a veteran in England for over a decade, acknowledges the value of Agyeman’s unique journey.

“It’s unpredictable in the Championship—the reactions from players can vary, especially for someone with such a distinct path,” Ream mentioned. “He seems to be in a great place, both mentally and physically. When he’s feeling good, he’s capable of amazing things.”

“Coming alone to a new country and adjusting to a different team can be tough,” he added. “Football is universal, but Agyeman’s confidence shines through. Scoring double figures in your first year is impressive, and it’s fantastic to witness his success.”