Alex Freeman scores first La Liga goal as Villarreal’s ‘super player’ shines in three roles

Freeman delivers across the pitch in Villarreal comeback

Alex Freeman announced himself in La Liga with a goal and a man-of-the-match performance, helping Villarreal fight back against Valencia in a regional derby. The USMNT defender played in three roles during the match, showcasing the adaptability that has made him a valuable option for coach Iñigo Pérez.

Freeman began at left-back, away from his customary position on the right. He helped create two chances before Valencia took the lead from the penalty spot. After substitutions around the 65th minute, he moved to right-back, then later pushed further forward into right midfield as Villarreal adjusted their shape.

His defining moment came in the 69th minute. Villarreal worked the ball down the left and sent a cross into the area, where Freeman prodded it through a crowded defence and into the narrow gap between the goalkeeper and a defender. It was his first goal in La Liga.

Pérez praises defender’s versatility

Villarreal ultimately completed a shorthanded comeback, and although Freeman was not directly involved in the late winner, his movement down the flank helped stretch Valencia’s defence. He was named man of the match.

Pérez described Freeman as a “super player” and praised his ability to fill several positions. “He can easily play center-back, full-back, left-back, further forward, wing-back; he’s even played on both flanks for his national team,” the coach said, adding that Freeman’s versatility and composure gave him confidence to ask the defender to adapt to different assignments.

The performance came less than a year after Freeman left Orlando City for Villarreal. The report said the Spanish club secured him for an initial fee of $4 million, before his profile rose further. The move is presented as an early investment in a player whose potential could attract a higher price, though the article also noted areas for development: Valencia’s forwards were able to exploit their experience in aerial contests, and Freeman is still adapting to the demands of playing on the opposite flank.

Pochettino has long backed Freeman’s potential

United States coach Mauricio Pochettino has previously spoken highly of Freeman. After Freeman scored in the United States’ group-clinching win over Australia on June 19, Pochettino called him humble, attentive and “an amazing player,” saying he had the potential “to be one of the best players at his position in the world.”

Against Valencia, Freeman offered a vivid example of that potential: a defender able to shift roles, contribute in attack and help change the course of a match for a Champions League-level club.