Endorsed by three members of the 2026 USMNT World Cup roster:
Brenden Aaronson, Mark McKenzie, & Auston Trusty
The Book
The Brand
Endorsed by three members of the 2026 USMNT World Cup roster:
Brenden Aaronson, Mark McKenzie, & Auston Trusty
Legends, Coaches, & Pros
“This book is one small but important contribution to the rising tide of knowledge about the history of elite soccer in America and our place—and potential future—in the global game”
“I'm hopeful and optimistic that my generation—and those that follow—can carry on the American soccer story told in this book, and continue to build on it year after year.”
“An essential text for any fan who wants to take a journey into the U.S. game’s roots and ambitions. It reads like history but feels like a full-field press into our optimistic soccer future.”
“This book explores the historical roots of the country’s rise, and illuminates the emergence of a new era of power and influence for the sport.”
“American Soccer Nation tells the full, dramatic story of how the world’s most popular sport took root in the U.S., only to be defined by a cycle of struggle, failure, and near-collapse. It traces the journey from immigrant-led leagues and the NASL’s high-flying bust to the slow, steady revolution sparked by the 1994 World Cup. Discover the academies and blueprints that are finally producing elite American talent, and why the nation is poised for a spectacular performance at the 2026 World Cup. Mark Franek nails it.”
“This book captures the heart, struggle, and progress of the men’s game. The chapters offer a sharp, honest look at how elite men’s soccer evolved across the nation, and what it will take to impress on the international stage.”
“Mark Franek’s perspective from inside the Philadelphia Union makes this book feel genuine, informed, and important. A great read for fans and players who care about the future of the American game.”
“This book is like a hopeful cross into the hearts of American soccer fans. A well-told history about our gritty past and our potential future.”
“A rare combination of rigorous reporting and compelling storytelling. And, if that’s not enough, it’s rooted in the DNA of America’s up-and-coming soccer stars!”
“American Soccer Nation captures something I’ve always believed: our game in the U.S. has a story worth celebrating. This book showcases the resilience, ambition, and passion that has carried American soccer to this moment—not by accident, but through decades of real investment and belief. Growing up in this system and now living it at the highest level, I know the future isn’t just promising—it’s already taking shape around us.”
“A refreshing, in-depth book just in time for the 2026 World Cup, with insights from some top players and thought leaders. A must-read for fans ready to embrace the growing game of American soccer!”
“This book rewrites the way American fans will understand their own soccer story. It’s bold, thoughtful, and deeply inspiring.”
“A beautifully written history of elite men’s soccer on American soil. Written from somebody who has a front-row seat, and everyday interaction with some of the upcoming talents and next generation of the U.S. Soccer Federation. I’m recommending it with full confidence to all my teammates, and all soccer fans across the globe!”
Journalists, Teachers, & Historians
“Mark Franek’s American Soccer Nation is an engaging introduction to soccer’s long history in the United States. A timely and entertaining starting point for deeper discussion of the myriad topics associated with American soccer’s path toward its explosive growth today, this book is sure to become a classroom staple.”
“This book will be well received by those of us who grew up with the game of soccer in America. Coaches, players, and fans will find that it captures the unique history of our journey to establish the passion, culture, and outcomes needed to compete internationally.”
“As a former player and current content creator engaged in growing the sport of soccer in America, this book is a representation of the American soccer development system. And a reminder of our history, and what’s to come.”
“Mark Franek is a gifted writer and educator who loves soccer! He brings these qualities to bear in American Soccer Nation, a beautifully woven story of the evolution of the beautiful game in America. I thoroughly enjoyed it.”
“Mark Franek has broken new and fertile ground with American Soccer Nation! He goes beyond previous books limited to the failures of the U.S. Men’s National Team by providing a detailed—and accurate—history of the sport as well as a thought-provoking and insightful analysis of the growth, development, and present state of elite men’s soccer in this country. This is a seminal work and a must-read for players, coaches, fans, and anyone who truly cares about the future of U.S. soccer!”
“High school boys expect a book to lecture them, so when they find one that invites discussion, they engage. In American Soccer Nation, Mark Franek presents the American soccer story as something alive and evolving—not a game we borrowed, but one we've helped shape. Mark moves through history with quick wit that makes a century of soccer accessible even to newcomers like me. My students leaned in, instead of checking out, and the conversations flowed naturally. By the end, they weren't just learning about soccer; they were debating its future as if it were theirs to build.”
Mark Franek, Author
Mark is an American sportswriter, educator, and former attorney who writes extensively on sports and human-interest topics for major publications. He teaches at YSC Academy where he developed a course on elite men’s U.S. soccer history. He is now working on the women's version.
Merchandise
Shop official apparel and merchandise inspired by the book and the players. Proceeds benefit youth soccer development in America.