Matt Turner

Matt Turner is a goalkeeper recognized for his significant impact on American soccer. Turner began playing soccer at age 14 and went undrafted out of college before signing with Major League Soccer club New England Revolution following a successful preseason trial. He played collegiate soccer at Fairfield University, and his connection to the Revolution was facilitated by Fairfield alum and former MLS defender Justin Thompson.

Turner made 84 appearances for New England Revolution, earning MLS Goalkeeper of the Year honors after recording 17 clean sheets in 33 matches and contributing to the club's Supporters' Shield-winning campaign. He holds the club record for most wins in a single season, with 17 victories, and was named to the MLS Best XI. His performances in Major League Soccer drew attention from prominent European clubs, including Manchester United, Newcastle, and Arsenal.

Turner spent three seasons in the English Premier League, playing for Arsenal, Nottingham Forest, and Crystal Palace. He achieved a notable milestone by winning the FA Cup with Crystal Palace, joining a select group of Americans to have lifted the trophy. Throughout his Premier League career, Turner demonstrated consistency and composure, attributes that defined his time in MLS.

Internationally, Turner has been a key figure for the United States men's national team. He was named CONCACAF Gold Cup Best Goalkeeper after posting five clean sheets in six appearances and played a pivotal role in the team's tournament victory. At the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, Turner recorded two clean sheets, becoming the first USMNT goalkeeper with multiple World Cup shutouts since 1930. He set a national team record with 14 clean sheets through his first 20 caps.

Turner returned to New England Revolution on loan from Olympique Lyonnais, rejoining the club where he began his professional career. Among MLS goalkeepers, he ranks in the top 10 in save percentage, saves, and goals against average, and leads the league in goals added and goals prevented, according to American Soccer Analysis. Turner's progression from undrafted walk-on to World Cup starter highlights his enduring presence in American soccer, with a career spanning Major League Soccer, the Premier League, and international competition.