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ALL ABOUT FOOTBALLER MATT TURNER
Matt Turner has gone from going undrafted in the MLS Draft to becoming one of the most reliable goalkeepers in American and European soccer. This article will take you through his story, from his beginnings in New Jersey, his meteoric rise in MLS with the New England Revolution, his move to Arsenal in the Premier League, and his current stint with Nottingham Forest. You'll also learn key statistics, interesting anecdotes (like his experience learning to play goalkeeper at 16), and how he has been fundamental to the US Men's National Team. Get ready for a story of overcoming adversity, talent, and character.
Early Beginnings and Development as a Goalkeeper
Matt Turner was born on June 24, 1994, in Park Ridge, New Jersey. Unlike many professional soccer players, Turner did not go through elite academies from a young age. In fact, he didn't start playing as a goalkeeper until he was 16, which makes his story even more impressive.
He studied at Fairfield University, where he played for the Fairfield Stags in the NCAA. During his college years, he demonstrated great reaction time and game awareness, which allowed him to stand out despite playing in a minor league within the American system. In 2016, he went undrafted in the MLS Draft, but the New England Revolution gave him an opportunity as an undrafted player. He spent his first few years as a substitute or on loan, but with hard work and patience, he earned a starting position and the coaching staff's trust. The Underdog's Path Turner represents the perfect underdog: without elite academies, without being drafted, and yet managing to climb to the top of American soccer and then to European soccer. His perseverance and humility have made him an example for thousands of young people who don't follow the traditional path in sports.
He started playing goalkeeper at 16
He played in the NCAA with Fairfield
He wasn't drafted in the MLS Draft
He signed with New England as a free agent
He stood out for his work ethic
Clubs he has played for
Matt Turner's club career has been a steady evolution. After signing with the New England Revolution in 2016, he had to wait until 2018 to make his debut as a starter. Since then, his performance has been so solid that in 2021 he was named MLS Goalkeeper of the Year.
In January 2022, Arsenal in England announced his signing. Although he played few official matches due to competition with Aaron Ramsdale, Turner took advantage of his minutes in the Europa League and domestic cups to demonstrate his ability. Then, in 2023, he was transferred to Nottingham Forest in search of a regular starting position in the Premier League.
Club Career
New England Revolution (2016–2022): 102 matches played, club idol and star in MLS.
Arsenal FC (2022–2023): Primarily played in the Europa League and FA Cup.
Nottingham Forest (2023–present): Signed as the starting goalkeeper, he has shown reliability between the posts.
Achievements, statistics and curiosities
Matt Turner has not only earned the respect of his teammates and coaches, but also a series of awards and recognitions that support his level. In 2021, he was chosen as the MLS Goalkeeper of the Year, and that same year he was key in winning the Gold Cup with the United States Men's National Team, where he received the award for best goalkeeper of the tournament. With the national team, he has been a regular since 2021, and has participated in important tournaments such as the Gold Cup, the Concacaf Nations League, and the qualifiers for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where he also saw playing time. Key Statistics: Over 120 professional appearances; Average saves per game: 3.5
2021 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year
2021 Gold Cup Goalkeeper of the Year
Over 30 appearances with the U.S. Men's National Team
Fun Facts About Turner
He is of Lithuanian and Jewish descent and has expressed pride in his roots.
He learned to be a goalkeeper by watching YouTube videos.
In his youth, he was rejected by many academies.
His idol is Tim Howard, another Historic US goalkeeper.
He has a degree in finance and economics.
Matt Turner proves that the path to success isn't always linear. His story inspires anyone who has ever been underestimated, reminding us that with hard work, focus, and resilience, it's possible to reach the top, even if you start from the bottom and late.
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