Many MLS players have enjoyed a productive 2025 with the U.S. men’s national team. From Matt Freese to Alex Freeman, the list has continued to grow ahead of 2026.

Columbus Crew fullback/wingback Max Arfsten is another player that has truly boosted his stock with the FIFA World Cup seven months away. Arfsten, who came through the ranks of the San Jose Earthquakes’ MLS NEXT Pro affiliate Earthquakes II, has made the most of Antonee Robinson’s continued absence from camp.

The 24-year-old debuted under Mauricio Pochettino back in January and has continued to rack up the minutes and appearances this year. Arfsten has appeared 14 times for the USMNT in 2025, scoring one goal and adding four assists. 

He was a mainstay during the USMNT’s CONCACAF Gold Cup schedule and has continued to start in September and October’s friendlies. 

Now ahead of the USMNT’s final matches of the year, Arfsten reflected on his opportunities and how his call-ups have helped him take the next step in his career.

“I felt like I did everything I could in training to show what I can do,” Arfsten said in a conference call Tuesday. “And then all I really wanted was to do whatever I could at the club level to become involved in the camps to come. That was really my mentality.

“It’s helped me become just more well-rounded as a player,” Arfsten added when asked about his production at club level. “I’ve been a bit sharper in certain moments. Just being involved in these camps and having our coaching staff here express belief in me and give me advice on certain things has definitely helped me become more confident and grow as a player a lot.”

Since joining the Crew in 2023, Arfsten has quickly become one of the premier faces at his position. He appeared in 37 matches for the Crew this season, scoring seven goals and adding 10 assists across all competitions. 

Despite playing a lot on the defensive end, Arfsten’s offensive numbers have gradually improved over the past three seasons. His continued production has reportedly led to European suitors this winter, should the versatile defender decide to make the jump from MLS.

Alongside fellow MLS’ers Freese and Freeman, who have also put themselves in contention for World Cup roster spots next summer, Arfsten credited the chemistry of the group that has mainly worked together throughout 2025. 

“A big amount of us [has] played together a lot now and have just built that chemistry and have a better understanding of what Coach wants us to do,” Arfsten said.

Arfsten will be expected to see minutes against Paraguay and Uruguay this month before the USMNT takes a four-month pause before their penultimate window ahead of the World Cup.