Honing his skills under the Barcelona youth program since 2018, Diego Kochen was rightfully projected as a top goalkeeper prospect in the U.S. youth system. At the 2025 U-20 World Cup, the teenager was slated to be a starter for Team USA and jumpstart his international career. However, that anticipation of seeing Kochen in action under the crossbar isn’t happening, and the fans are livid.
MLS and USMNT insider Tom Bogert shared some frustrating news from Chile, the host country for the 2025 FIFA tournament, via a post on X on September 27. “GK Diego Kochen has left the United States camp at the U-20 World Cup after being recalled by Barcelona,” Bogert wrote, before elaborating how the American contingent didn’t give away its goalkeeper without trying to negotiate the Spanish club’s request.
“U.S. Soccer tried to keep Kochen and status was up in the air, but final decision is made: Kochen returns to Spain to be Barca’s No. 2 GK behind Wojciech Szczęsny,” the social media update highlighted how a raging fire in Barcelona’s backyard made it impossible for Diego to represent the Stars and Stripes at the prestigious international soccer competition. So, what’s so urgent at the Catalonian giant’s house that needed Kochen’s immediate attention?
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Well, as per reports, FC Barcelona’s reserve goalkeeper, Joan Garcia, recently picked up an injury, leaving Wojciech Szczęsny as the sole woodwork guardian in the roster. Furthermore, with ter Stegen out for the foreseeable future, Barca is visibly struggling with who to rely on for goalkeeping duties. In light of the recent development, the club sent for Diego Kochen before heading into the new season. Barca finished the 2024-25 season as the La Liga champions, and currently stands in second spot in the ongoing season. Needless to say, the European soccer Behemoths would like nothing more than to defend their title. Moreover, with the Champions League action heating up, sending for Kochen came as a logical call for Barcelona.
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Under the circumstances, Brøndby goalkeeperGavin Beavers will replace Diego as Team USA’s goalkeeper at the U-20 World Cup. FIFA’s regulations permit emergency replacement under special conditions, and Kochen’s departure for Spain will certainly qualify as an emergency. The Americans begin their campaign in Chile against New Caledonia in Rancagua on Monday (7 pm ET) with Adam Beaudry and Duran Ferree as the reserve goalkeepers.
While Team USA’s roster doesn’t look too shabby, Kochen’s international debut getting delayed hasn’t sat well with the fans back home.
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Diego Kochen’s change of plans infuriates the fans
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup not far away, Chile could have served as an excellent stage for the USMNT to test the waters and make their picks for the senior team. With Kochen out, his hopes of locking horns with the big boys just got a setback. Obviously, fans aren’t happy. “Barca really finna make him ride the bench over starting for his country at the U-20 World Cup and being able to show off his talents . Smh,” grunted one fan.
“Barcelona mismanagement costing the US program,” complained another. The USA is set to co-host the 2026 World Cup, obviously a big responsibility as well as an opportunity to help the sport get a bigger footprint in the country. In light of things, FOX Sports CEO and executive producer Eric Shank has already noted that six million visitors should be expected for next year’s big event. For a rising star like Kochen, the U-20 World Cup could have served as a gateway experience of what it feels like playing under crushing pressure. With that opportunity taken away, it’s only understandable why the soccer connoisseurs are in tatters.
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One fan straight-up commented, “I hate this.” Another was just as annoyed over Kochen being made to head to Spain and shoulder club duties over representing the nation in Chile, and commented, “Cruel to rip away a once in a lifetime opportunity.” A different fan was looking for answers wherever available, “Whether this is a decision that was taken by USSF or Kochen, they should feel completely let down by someone.”
How do you feel about Diego Kochen’s sudden change in career trajectory? Tell us!