This time last year, Max Arfsten was concluding his first season as the Columbus Crew 's starting left wingback.

Now, the 24-year-old defender is in contention to represent the United States when they co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside Canada and Mexico.

"I'm always striving for the next thing," Arfsten said on Off The Ball .

"That's just always how I am. Whenever I achieve something, it's amazing and I feel really good for a day or two. Then I'm already thinking about the next thing. That's just how my brain works."

The mindset is understandable when considering the 2025 MLS All-Star's rise with Columbus and the USMNT.

Arfsten has won two titles with the Crew and helped them reach the 2024 Concacaf Champions Cup final, tallying 14g/14a in 92 games along the way.

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