Who is Yunus Musah and what's his career path?
Musah was born in New York to Ghanaian parents, moved to Italy as a baby, then to England at age 9, where he joined Arsenal's academy. Valencia signed him at 17 and gave him La Liga minutes immediately. He chose the USMNT over England in 2021 — a huge win for U.S. Soccer. AC Milan bought him in 2023 to pair with Pulisic, and he's grown into a regular starter for one of Italy's biggest clubs.
What is Yunus Musah's playing style?
Musah is a ball-carrying central midfielder. He doesn't pass-and-move — he picks the ball up in midfield and dribbles through pressure with strength and balance. His style is closer to a Yaya Touré than a Xavi: he uses his body to protect the ball and break lines with his legs. At 23 he's still developing his end product, but the raw tools are elite.
What is Yunus Musah's role at the 2026 World Cup?
Musah is likely to start in central midfield alongside Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie in a 4-3-3, giving the U.S. an extra ball-carrier in transition. His ability to beat the press 1v1 from deep positions is something no other American midfielder offers.
If you love Yunus Musah's game, support Newcastle United FC
Musah's style — strong, direct, transition-heavy midfield — is built for the Premier League, and Newcastle is the EPL team that plays the most like AC Milan tactically. Bruno Guimarães and Sandro Tonali (Musah's old Milan teammate, now at Newcastle) play a similar carrier role. If you're hyped on Musah's tournament, Newcastle's midfield will scratch the same itch every weekend.
Fun facts about Yunus Musah
- +Eligible for four national teams: USA, England, Italy, and Ghana — chose USA
- +Came through Arsenal's academy from age 9 to 16
- +Teammate of Christian Pulisic at AC Milan since 2023
- +Is the youngest American to start a Champions League match
Frequently asked questions
What team does Yunus Musah play for?
AC Milan in Italy's Serie A. He joined from Valencia in summer 2023.
Was Musah ever in an English academy?
Yes — he was at Arsenal's academy from age 9 to 16 before Valencia signed him. He grew up a Gunner.