Tyler Adams’ MCL Tear: A Challenge and Chance for the USMNT

Another setback for Tyler Adams

Tyler Adams has faced multiple injuries since joining Bournemouth. He injured his hamstring shortly before his arrival in 2023 and spent the first six months recovering.

“I can’t repay Bournemouth enough for the trust they gave me. They signed a player who was injured, without knowing when I’d be back. There wasn’t a perfect recovery timeline,” Adams said about his debut season. “I think I played two or three games, maybe.”

After that, he dealt with a back injury, missing the start of Bournemouth’s 2024/25 season. Recently, he’s experienced his best stretch of consistent play for the team.

A best-case scenario

While tearing his MCL is disappointing for Adams, Bournemouth, and the USMNT, it’s the best possible outcome given the situation. Adams went down in pain just three minutes into a key match against Manchester United, with no other players involved. Knee injuries without contact often signal ACL tears, which usually require a year for recovery.

As it stands, he’ll be sidelined for a few months of the Premier League season but is expected to return in the spring.

An opportunity disguised as a setback

The USMNT is set to play Belgium and Portugal in March 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. Adams’s recovery timeline suggests he should be ready in time for these important matches.

If he’s not fully fit, USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino has strong midfielders ready to step in. Vancouver Whitecaps player Sebastian Berhalter had a breakout season in 2025, finishing strong with a notable free-kick goal against Uruguay. He could be a solid substitute for Adams, bringing his energetic style to the game.