Teenage US Soccer Star Zavier Gozo Joins Crystal Palace
Crystal Palace has secured the signing of 19-year-old American winger Zavier Gozo from MLS side Real Salt Lake. The deal reportedly spans five years and is valued at over $15 million. This move adds another American talent to the Eagles’ roster, joining fellow USMNT player Chris Richards.
Gozo expressed his excitement about the transfer, saying, “I’m really looking forward to playing in the Premier League with Crystal Palace. It’s the dream of any footballer. I’m excited by the people and the project they have going on here. I’ve seen a lot of it, and that’s what excites me about this club as well, the success that they’ve had.”
Rapid Rise From Utah to England
The young winger hails from West Valley City, Utah. His journey started at his local club before joining Real Salt Lake’s youth academy six years ago. He made his MLS debut in 2023 when he was just 16 years old. Since then, Gozo has impressed with six goals and five assists in 16 starts during the first half of the current MLS season. His performances earned him an MLS All-Star selection.
“I think [my rise] even happened a little bit too fast for me sometimes to even think about and appreciate,” Gozo told Sports Illustrated at the MLS All-Star Game. “Life moves so fast. You play well for a couple of games, and you’re an All-Star. It came faster than I thought and faster than a lot of people thought. It’s been a great journey.”
Joining Forces with Chris Richards
Gozo will link up with Chris Richards at Crystal Palace. Richards, a defensive mainstay for the USMNT, was a key starter at the 2026 World Cup. Seven years older than Gozo, Richards could serve as a mentor as the youngster aims to break into the senior national team this fall.
In a video shared by the club, Richards messaged Gozo: “Yo bro, it’s Chris. Heard through the grapevine you might be joining me in South London all the way from the 801. Can’t wait to get going. Congrats bro, and see you soon.”
Americans Across the Premier League and EFL
This season features a growing number of Americans in English football. Aside from Gozo and Richards at Crystal Palace, other US players include:
- Antonee Robinson at Fulham (fullback)
- Brenden Aaronson at Leeds United (attacking midfielder)
- Tyler Adams at Bournemouth (defensive midfielder)
- Haji Wright at Coventry City (striker)
In the EFL Championship, Americans are also well represented:
- Max Arfsten, Sebastian Berhalter, and Aidan Morris at Middlesbrough
- Patrick Agyemang at Derby County, currently recovering from an Achilles injury expected to keep him out until winter
Next Steps for Gozo
Crystal Palace begins their 2026–27 campaign against Everton this Saturday, where Gozo might make his Premier League debut. His journey from local youth soccer in Utah to one of the toughest leagues in the world is a remarkable rise to watch.
