Who is Matt Freese?

Matt Freese is an American professional soccer goalkeeper who plays for New York City FC in Major League Soccer. Born on September 2, 1998, in Wayne, Pennsylvania, Freese developed into one of the country’s top young goalkeepers after progressing through the Philadelphia Union academy before eventually becoming an MLS starter and earning opportunities with the USMNT.

Matt Freese Profile

• Full Name: Matthew Andrew Geary Freese
• Date of Birth: September 2, 1998
• Birthplace: Wayne, Pennsylvania, USA
• Nationality: American
• Position: Goalkeeper
• Height: 1.91 m (6 ft 3 in)
• Current Club: New York City FC
• National Team: United States Men’s National Team (USMNT)

Matt Freese Soccer Career

Freese began his soccer journey with the Philadelphia Union Academy, one of the top youth development systems in MLS.

Instead of immediately pursuing a professional contract, he chose to attend Harvard University while continuing his development. After two seasons with the Harvard Crimson men’s soccer team, he signed professionally with Philadelphia Union.

His professional career has included:

• Philadelphia Union
• Philadelphia Union II
• New York City FC

His move to NYCFC in 2023 proved to be a turning point, as he established himself as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper with consistent performances and multiple clean sheets.

Matt Freese at Harvard

One of the most fascinating aspects of Freese’s career is his time at Harvard University.

Unlike many professional players who skip college, Freese attended Harvard and studied Economics while competing for the Harvard Crimson soccer program.

Despite leaving school early to begin his professional career, he continued taking classes remotely and eventually completed his degree, becoming one of the few Harvard graduates playing professional soccer.

Harvard Achievements

• Played two NCAA seasons
• Second Team All-Ivy League selection
• Economics graduate
• Balanced professional soccer with academics

His analytical mindset has even influenced his goalkeeping, with research projects focusing on soccer analytics and penalty-kick strategy.

Matt Freese High School

Matt Freese attended high school in Pennsylvania, where he quickly became recognized as one of the state’s top goalkeeping prospects.

During his teenage years, he represented the Philadelphia Union Academy while attracting interest from elite clubs. Reports have noted that he had opportunities abroad but prioritized education alongside soccer development, ultimately choosing Harvard.

Matt Freese College Career

Freese played for Harvard from 2017 to 2018.

During his college career:

• Appeared in 16 matches
• Established himself as one of the Ivy League’s top goalkeepers
• Earned All-Ivy recognition
• Developed into an MLS-ready prospect

His performances convinced Philadelphia Union to offer him a professional contract as a Homegrown Player.

Matt Freese Salary

Although New York City FC has not publicly disclosed the exact terms of Freese’s latest contract, MLS salary records in recent seasons have placed him among the league’s well-compensated starting goalkeepers.

His earnings come from:

• MLS base salary
• Guaranteed compensation
• Performance bonuses
• Sponsorships and endorsements

As his profile continues to grow through club and international appearances, his overall earnings are expected to increase.

Matt Freese Stats

Club Statistics (through the 2026 season available data)

International Stats

• United States U23 appearances: 1
• USMNT appearances: 14+
• Multiple international clean sheets

Freese has become known for:

• Strong shot-stopping
• Excellent distribution
• Penalty-saving ability
• Leadership in defense

Playing Style

Freese combines traditional goalkeeping with modern ball-playing skills.

His strengths include:

• Outstanding reflexes
• Command of the penalty area
• Accurate long passing
• Calmness under pressure
• Tactical awareness

His Harvard education has often been highlighted as contributing to his analytical approach to the game, especially in penalty situations.

Matt Freese and the USMNT

Freese has become an important option for the United States national team. Strong MLS performances earned him international call-ups, and he has gained recognition for his composure and ability to perform in high-pressure matches, strengthening his case as one of the country’s leading goalkeepers.

Future Outlook

At just 27 years old, Matt Freese is entering the prime years of his career. With consistent performances for New York City FC and increasing opportunities with the USMNT, many analysts believe he could remain one of the leading American goalkeepers for years to come. His combination of athletic ability, leadership, and analytical mindset makes him a standout figure in American soccer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Matt Freese?

Matt Freese is an American professional soccer goalkeeper who plays for New York City FC and the United States Men’s National Team.

Did Matt Freese attend Harvard?

Yes. He attended Harvard University, played collegiate soccer, studied Economics, and later completed his degree while playing professionally.

What position does Matt Freese play?

He plays as a goalkeeper.

Which MLS club does Matt Freese play for?

He plays for New York City FC.

How tall is Matt Freese?

Matt Freese is 1.91 meters (6 feet 3 inches) tall.