This means nothing in any technical sense of the matter, but Jeff Carlisle of ESPN is reporting via Twitter that highly-touted youngster Julian Green will practice for two days with the USMNT in Frankfurt ahead of their friendly with Ukraine.
Carlisle also reiterated that Green will not participate in the match. Jeff said the player’s father, Jerry, is the one who informed him of the player’s trip. US Soccer confirmed the report.
Born in Tampa, the 18-year-old German-American is a hot prospect eligible to play for both countries, and Jurgen Klinsmann is doing his darndest to convince him to pick the United States.
Having played for the German U-19 squad, Green must file for a one-time switch in order to play for the United States, and he’s publicly stated in the past that he is not ready to do so at this time.
Again, the immediate impact this has is little to none, but the fact Green is open and willing to spend time with the senior US squad is a very positive sign that more good could come of this down the road.
Green currently plays for Bayern Munich’s youth squad, and made his senior team debut back in November, coming on as a substitute in their Champions League match against CSKA Moscow. It’s his only appearance for the club thus far.
The friendly between the US and Ukraine will take place on March 5.