James Sands Aims for World Cup Glory with Bundesliga Move
U.S. international midfielder James Sands is hoping a loan spell with Bundesliga club St. Pauli will propel him toward a spot on the World Cup roster next year. Sands, 24, joined St. Pauli from Major League SoccerS New York City FC in January.
Since arriving, Sands has quickly become a regular starter, appearing in six league matches, playing the full 90 minutes in his last three.
“I think that speaks a lot to how quickly my teammates and the coaches here have helped me get on board with things,” Sands told reporters. “It’s a very good group here. We’re really building in the right direction.”
Sands, who earned his first senior international cap in 2021, played a crucial role in the USA’s Gold Cup victory that year, starting every match. However, he hasn’t featured for the national team since July 2023.
“Being a part of the World Cup team next year would be an amazing achievement,” Sands said. “The only thing I can control is how I perform on a day-to-day basis with my club. And I think being consistent and putting in strong performances will hopefully get my name back in the mix.”
Sands faces stiff competition for a World Cup spot, with numerous talented midfielders vying for a limited number of places.
“There are a lot of talented players and a lot of them are playing in Europe,” Sands acknowledged. “So I knew to have a realistic chance at the team,I would have to be competing at a very high level in Europe.”
Prior to joining St. Pauli, Sands spent a season on loan at Scottish giants Rangers, gaining valuable experience in a different league.
“I think being exposed to that many different styles and rhythms in the game only makes you a better player,” Sands explained.Sands’ versatility, capable of playing both midfield and central defence, adds further value to his candidacy.
How has playing in the Bundesliga with St. Pauli impacted James Sands’ chances of making the US World Cup roster?
James Sands Aims for World Cup Glory with Bundesliga Move
U.S. international midfielder James Sands is hoping a loan spell with Bundesliga club St. Pauli will propel him toward a spot on the World Cup roster next year. Sands, 24, joined St. Pauli from Major League SoccerS New York City FC in January.
Since arriving, Sands has quickly become a regular starter, appearing in six league matches, playing the full 90 minutes in his last three.
“I think that speaks a lot to how quickly my teammates and the coaches here have helped me get on board with things,” Sands told reporters. “It’s a very good group here. We’re really building in the right direction.”
Sands, who earned his first senior international cap in 2021, played a crucial role in the USA’s Gold Cup victory that year, starting every match.However, he hasn’t featured for the national team since july 2023.
“Being a part of the world Cup team next year would be an amazing achievement,” Sands said. “The only thing I can control is how I perform on a day-to-day basis with my club. And I think being consistent and putting in strong performances will hopefully get my name back in the mix.”
Sands faces stiff competition for a World Cup spot, with numerous talented midfielders vying for a limited number of places.
“There are a lot of talented players and a lot of them are playing in Europe,” Sands acknowledged. “So I knew to have a realistic chance at the team,I would have to be competing at a very high level in Europe.”
Prior to joining St. Pauli, Sands spent a season on loan at Scottish giants Rangers, gaining valuable experience in a different league.
“I think being exposed to that many different styles and rhythms in the game only makes you a better player,” Sands explained.Sands’ versatility, capable of playing both midfield and central defense, adds further value to his candidacy..
Frequently asked Questions
**Q: How has James Sands performed since joining St. Pauli?**
**A:** Sands has quickly become a regular starter for St. Pauli, appearing in six league matches and playing the full 90 minutes in his last three appearances.
**Q: What is James Sands’ goal for the upcoming season?**
**A:** Sands hopes his performances with St. Pauli will help him earn a spot on the U.S. National Team roster for the 2026 World Cup.
**Q: What are some of the challenges Sands faces in trying to make the World Cup team?**
**A:** Sands faces stiff competition from other talented midfielders, many of whom are playing in European leagues.
**Q: what experience does Sands have playing in Europe?**
**A:** prior to joining St. Pauli, Sands spent a season on loan at scottish giants Rangers, gaining valuable experience in a different league.
sands’ journey to the World Cup is just beginning. His performance in the Bundesliga will undoubtedly be a key factor in determining his fate.
