Who is Gabriel Slonina, the USMNT’s Latest Young Recruit?

The USMNT is one of the best teams in the world of football right now. They have a great young squad whose mettle will be tested in the upcoming World Cup in Qatar. Moreover, they now have two young players, Gabriel Slonina and Malik Tillman, who have decided to represent them.

Tillman is a Bayern Munich academy graduate who has represented Germany at the youth levels. However, he made the switch to the USMNT and was immediately called up to the squad.

On the other hand, Slonina is an 18-year-old goalkeeper for MLS club Chicago Fire FC. He has called up to play for Poland, but he too chose to represent the USMNT in the end.

Gabriel Slonina and his heritage

Slonina broke the news in a post on Twitter, where he revealed his heritage as a Polish American. He talked about his dream of playing for his country and added how his parents immigrated to the USA.

“I have always identified myself as a first-generation Polish American who is very proud of my roots and heritage. My parents, as many others, immigrated to the USA to look for better opportunities, and the chance to find success in a new country,” Slonina said.

He revealed that he loves his Polish heritage and understands what it means to play for the Polish National team. However, in the end, he chose to play for the country of his birth.

Slonina’s heart is American

Slonina thanked Poland’s national team for giving him the opportunity to play for the country but did add that his heart is American. He also said that America has given a lot to his family and it is the place he calls home.

“I am extremely grateful for being given the possibility to play for Poland. With that being said, my heart is American. This country has given me and my family all the opportunities I could ask for. America is home and that’s who I’m going to represent,” he added.

With his arrival, the USMNT have a great prospect on their hands, and it’ll be interesting to see if Gregg Berhalter will take him to the World Cup in Qatar.

Read More: Who is Malik Tillman? The Bayern Munich Sensation Who Can Be USMNT’s Biggest Prospect at Qatar World Cup