Matt Turner Opens Up About Tough Stint In Premier League- "Feeling Loved Again"

Aug 12, 2025 3:15 PM EDT

Matt Turner has been the starting goalkeeper for the USMNT for years—until Mauricio Pochettino gave Matt Freese a chance, pushing Turner to the bench. Now on loan from Lyon to the New England Revolution, Turner is happy to be playing in MLS again and has compared his experience playing in Europe with playing in the U.S. domestic league.

Turner became a key figure for the USMNT during the 2022 World Cup as the starting goalkeeper. Four years later, with a new coach and emerging star players, Turner lost some playing time but remains a “sure” call-up for the national team. Pochettino has told reporters multiple times that Turner is a reliable player.

Before joining Lyon, Turner spent three years in the Premier League from 2022 to 2025, playing for Arsenal, Nottingham Forest, and Crystal Palace. Though he didn’t play multiple matches in a row, he was always seen as a top-tier backup keeper. Now back in MLS, Turner reflected on the difference between the love he receives from fans in the U.S. and the energy he felt while playing in Europe.

At his first press conference back in MLS, Turner admitted he was nervous about returning to New England Revolution after years overseas. On the other hand, he said it felt good to feel the fans’ energy again.

“It’s been a while since I really felt those arms around me, and that was eye-opening, for sure. It’s good to be back in an environment where you’re loved,” Turner said.

How Was Matt Turner’s First Game Back?

Turner’s first game back in New England couldn’t have gone better. The Revs faced D.C. United at Gillette Stadium and won 2-0. Turner kept a clean sheet and will most likely remain the starter for the rest of the season.

From here, the Revs face a tough sequence of games. Next up is a showdown against LAFC and their new attacking duo—Son and Bouanga. After that, they’ll play Columbus Crew. The three-game stretch finishes against Wilfried Zaha’s Charlotte FC.