By DAN KARELL
Just days after reportedly calling up uncapped dual-national John Anthony Brooks to the U.S. Men’s National Team, head coach Jurgen Klinsmann will have another dual-national player to pick from.
Making an announcement on his Facebook page, AZ Alkmaar forward Aron Johannsson has decided to pledge his future to the USMNT, rejecting the nation that raised him, Iceland, despite playing for them in the youth levels.
The 22-year-old Mobile, Alabama native was mentioned by Klinsmann as recently as May as someone he was keeping an eye on, and a player that the USMNT coach wanted to bring into a camp in the near future. It’s unknown whether Johannsson will be able to file his one-time switch in time for the August 14 friendly match against Bosnia and Herzegovina, though it’s certainly possible he could take part in camp regardless.
Last season, Johannsson split the season between AGF Aarhus and AZ Alkmaar, scoring 14 goals in 18 matches until December with AGF, and then three goals in five games with Alkmaar. With Jozy Altidore moving to Sunderland, Johannsson should have a great opportunity to receive a starting place for the coming season.
What do you think of this decision? Happy to see dual-nationals choosing the USMNT? Do you see Johannsson contributing to this team prior to the World Cup in Brazil? How does this affect MLS-based forwards moving forward?
Share your thoughts below.