United States captain Tim Ream commended Derby County forward Patrick Agyemang, noting his progress as a 25-year-old American striker competing in the Championship.
“Everything has advanced a bit more, and he’s still not complete. That’s both the exciting aspect and the positive aspect,” Ream stated prior to this month’s friendlies for the U.S. against Belgium and Portugal. “He’s playing with confidence and finding the back of the net.”
“I’m observing the matches he’s involved in, and he’s playing full 90-minute games. For me, that indicates he’s in a good mental and physical state. When you feel good, it seems like you can accomplish anything.”
The forward, who is vying for a spot on the World Cup roster this summer, has recorded 10 goals and three assists in his inaugural season with Derby County. Having previously played in MLS alongside Ream at Charlotte FC before his transfer to Derby, Agyemang remarked on the contrast between MLS and the English second tier after his move abroad in 2025.
“The primary difference I always mention is the physicality. It’s extremely intense. In England, it’s very demanding in that regard,” Agyemang explained. “At times, you might expect a foul, but it’s often not called, and the play continues. So, it’s certainly aggressive in that sense.”
Ream, who has experience in the Championship from previous tenures with Fulham and Bolton Wanderers, emphasized how the league can aid players like Agyemang.
“Football is football. There are various styles of play, but the Championship, in my opinion, helps you mature. It makes you comprehend and value what it requires on a daily basis,” Ream remarked. “You’re playing Saturday, Tuesday, Saturday, and it compels you to focus on all the minor details regarding recovery and what you do when you’re not training.”
Regarding the U.S. team, Ream addressed the importance of the current camp for head coach Mauricio Pochettino and his squad with only a few months remaining until the World Cup.
“The message remains quite consistent, and it hasn’t really changed from any previous camps we’ve had,” Ream noted. “This is the most crucial camp, just as our camp in November was the most crucial.”
“So, it’s vital to remain concentrated on the present.”
The USMNT will compete against Belgium on March 28 and Portugal on March 31. Both friendlies will take place at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
The Americans will commence Group D play at the World Cup on June 12 against Paraguay at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.
