At 40 years old, Brad Guzan is enjoying an impressive season in Major League Soccer. The Atlanta United goalkeeper has participated in 36 matches, demonstrating the resilience and skill that have propelled his team to new achievements, including a playoff victory over Inter Miami, which featured stars like Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez. And the fans are so eager to see Guzan return to Mauricio Pochettino’s USMNT roster- can you blame them?! Be that as it may, the seasoned keeper couldn’t help but chuckle at the thought.

In a recent chat with The Athletic, Guzan responded to the growing excitement about a potential USMNT comeback, saying, “I’m not anticipating a phone call from Mauricio Pochettino by any means.” His laughter highlights his understanding of the current dynamics in both national and club football, reminding fans not to get too caught up in nostalgia. He said, of course, there’s excitement, but at the moment, he noted, the pool of goalkeepers is strong and full of talent even though those who may not get regular playing time.

“Our goalkeeper pool, we’re in good hands,” Guzan asserted. His faith in the next generation is clear as he emphasizes the valuable experiences younger keepers have gained. “They’ve proven to be capable of playing in those types of environments,” he said. At a stage in his career when many might think about retirement, Guzan is far from ready to put away his gloves.

Reflecting on his longevity in the sport, Guzan remarked, “I’m not the first keeper to be playing at 40. There are tons of guys before me that have played in their 40s in the Premier League, Bundesliga, and World Cups.” His comments highlight a broader shift in football, where age is becoming less of a barrier to performance, particularly for goalkeepers.

Meanwhile, in a surprising turn of events, Lionel Messi and Inter Miami faced a heartbreaking exit from the MLS playoffs, losing 2-3 to Atlanta United. And Guzan had a big role to play. 

Inter Miami’s clash with Brad Guzan in the MLS playoffs

The playoff match was filled with tension and unexpected twists, leaving fans and players stunned, especially after Messi scored but couldn’t secure a win for his team. After the start of the second half, with Atlanta leading 2-1, Messi demonstrated why he’s considered one of the greatest.

In the 65th minute, he soared above the defense to score a spectacular header from a perfectly placed cross, leveling the score. However, this moment of brilliance turned contentious when he collided with Atlanta goalkeeper Brad Guzan while trying to quickly restart the game. The scene intensified as Guzan ended up on the ground, seemingly targeted by the Miami players. 

The defining moment came in the 76th minute when Bartosz Sliz scored and sealed themselves in the semis while sending Inter Miami home heartbroken.

Guzan, despite the chaos, showed commendable resilience and skill throughout the game, making crucial saves that earned him the title of Player of the Match. A diving save against Messi in the first half, followed by a brilliant stop of a header from Jordi Alba, highlighted his importance to Atlanta’s defense and his ability to thwart Miami’s advances.

Do you think Brad Guzan should return to the national team? Sound off in the comments below.