Ex-U.S. Star Freddy Adu Returns to Soccer, Signs with Swedish Osterlen FF

Freddy Adu of the U.S. in 2008. Photo by Jed Leicester/Shutterstock (8555020ev)

Freddy Adu, who was once considered the most talented player in United States’ soccer history, is attempting a comeback. After almost two years without a club, Adu agreed to join Sweden’s Osterlen FF.

Reportedly, Adu signed a deal until the end of the season. Osterlen FF currently competes in the third-tier of Sweden’s soccer competition.

Adu most recently suited up for Las Vegas Lights FC in USL Championship in 2018. He played 14 games and scored one goal. After getting released by the club, he spent the following two years working as a youth football coach.

While not directly confirming the deal, Adu hinted that he returned to professional soccer. “Missed this sport so much and just happy to have the opportunity to be playing again. One step at a time,” he wrote on Twitter.

Freddy Adu made history in 2003 when he signed a professional deal with D.C. United at 14. He made his debut in the following year when he became the youngest player to play a game in the history of professional sports in the United States. In 2006, an international debut followed, making him the youngest debutant in USMT history.

While everything was in place for Adu to be the next big soccer star, he never managed to live up to the huge expectations. He ended up becoming a journeyman, playing all across Europe and suiting up from Benfica, Monaco, and Jagodina, among other clubs but failing to find any success.

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