Cole Campbell Confirms USMNT Commitment After Iceland Youth Exit

Elversberg forward Cole Campbell has made clear that his international future lies with the United States, insisting he has no intention of revisiting the decision he made to leave Iceland’s youth system in 2024.

Campbell committed to United States pathway

The winger is eligible for Iceland through his mother and for the United States through his father. He played for Iceland at under-17 level before changing allegiance to the US youth set-up.

Although he could still, in technical terms, make another switch before appearing for a senior national side, Campbell said his choice is final.

• Campbell represented Iceland at youth level before joining the United States programme in 2024.
• He has yet to make his senior international debut, meaning a future eligibility change would remain possible under the rules.
• The 19-year-old, however, said he considers his US commitment permanent.

“I have already decided to switch to the US for many different reasons, and my future is with the US,” Campbell said. “There are no doubts in my mind. For me, it is set in stone.”

Campbell said the reception from the US federation, its coaches and staff had reinforced his conviction that he had chosen the right route. Having grown up in the United States, he described representing the country as an honour and said he wants to focus fully on playing for the national team.

Senior call-up remains the next target

Mauricio Pochettino is due to name his squad on Thursday for forthcoming friendlies against Peru, Chile, Canada and Mexico, with Campbell hoping to earn his first senior invitation.

The forward said he has been in regular contact with the United States technical staff for around two years. Those conversations began during his time at Borussia Dortmund and have continued intermittently since.

“I am hopeful, but we will see,” Campbell said. “My focus is on performing as well as possible and hopefully receiving my first call-up soon. It would be a dream to represent my country.”

Elversberg form gives Campbell a platform

Campbell joined newly promoted Elversberg from Borussia Dortmund in July in a €6 million deal, equivalent to about £5 million or $7 million. His early Bundesliga return stands at one goal from four appearances this season.

Vincent Wagner’s team are competing near the top end of the table and face Schalke 04 away on Sunday. Another productive display in Gelsenkirchen would strengthen Campbell’s case as the international break approaches.

• Transfer: Borussia Dortmund to Elversberg, July.
• Fee: €6 million (£5 million/$7 million).
• League record this season: one goal in four Bundesliga matches.
• Next club fixture: Schalke 04 v Elversberg on Sunday.