Joshua Wynder is certainly keeping busy at the U-20 World Cup. He’s fighting hard to help the United States push deep into the tournament. They have already secured a spot in the Round of 16. Yet, even with all that action on the pitch, the young center-back has something else on his mind: a potential return to Benfica to work alongside José Mourinho.
His thoughts keep drifting to the famous Portuguese club and the legendary coach. Wynder simply cannot wait for the opportunity to learn from such a football giant. It’s a powerful pull, even while he’s chasing international glory with his country.
“He is a legendary coach; he is a legend,” Wynder shared in comments to the FIFA website. “I think all players would be grateful to work with him. He is a fantastic coach. It was incredible to meet him and to have been coached by him in two training sessions before coming to the World Cup. I am very excited to return and work with him.”
Despite his eagerness for the future, Wynder is still performing when it counts. He has played in two matches during this U-20 World Cup. He completed all 90 minutes in the 3-0 victory against France. He also played the full game in the dominant 9-1 win over New Caledonia.
So, while he’s battling for the U.S. national team today, Wynder clearly has his sights set on what comes next. It’s a compelling glimpse into a young athlete’s world, balancing the present challenge with the promise of learning from one of the game’s true masters.