GOAL reviews the major takeaways from Americans playing in Europe, including yet another goal from the Monaco striker

The return to club soccer after an international break is always a bit strange. There’s a sense of relief for the casual fan, but a lack of fluidity in the actual product. Games sometimes seem jetlagged.

It can be challenging for U.S. internationals, who typically have to fly back across continents to play for their clubs. Some can look half awake.

But not Folarin Balogun, who was excellent for the USMNT in recent friendlies and recaptured the same form for his club. Tim Weah was less effective in a U.S. jersey, but has been instrumental in Marseille’s unlikely march to the top of Ligue 1. Tyler Adams, too, looked tidy in what was a frenetic game.

And even if Christian Pulisic is out, nursing a low-grade hamstring injury, Mauricio Pochettino can still take heart from a number of solid showings from the types of players who will be looking to make their case for a USMNT spot at the World Cup. 

GOAL looks at the major takeaways from this weekend’s Americans Abroad.