USMNT Trio Living Together at Middlesbrough as Premier League Dream Takes Shape

Three United States internationals are sharing a house in the north-east of England and chasing the same goal: promotion to the Premier League with Middlesbrough.

Aidan Morris, Sebastian Berhalter and Max Arfsten have formed an American colony at the Riverside Stadium. Morris has been at the club since July 2024 after leaving Columbus Crew. This summer he was joined by two more USMNT players — Berhalter from Vancouver Whitecaps and Arfsten from Columbus Crew on a four-year deal.

All three are 24. None of them are married. And for now, Berhalter and Arfsten are living with Morris.

“We’re trying to stay tidy,” Berhalter said. “We cooked Aidan dinner last night — pasta and some salad. We’re doing our best. He’s been great. We’re so lucky to have him.”

Morris has also introduced the pair to a British classic: Nando’s.

Columbus connection

The trio’s bond goes back further than Teesside. All three have roots at Columbus Crew. Berhalter played there in 2020-21 while his father Gregg was still associated with the club. Morris and Arfsten later shared a dressing room in Ohio.

That familiarity has made the move to England smoother. Morris, who spent his first year adapting alone, has given the newcomers a crash course in life at Middlesbrough.

Instant impact and USA chants

Berhalter and Arfsten both made winning debuts for the club. Fans waved Stars and Stripes flags, chanted “USA, USA,” and the stadium even played Estelle’s American Boy at half-time.

Morris watched from the touchline and applauded his new roommates.

Alexi Lalas has already nicknamed the growing American presence at the club “Middlesmerica.” Middlesbrough have steadily added US talent in recent years, and the three current internationals are the clearest sign yet of that strategy.

Shared ambition

The objective is clear. Middlesbrough want promotion. The three Americans want to help deliver it — and prove themselves in one of Europe’s toughest leagues.

Just over a month after the United States’ World Cup exit, Berhalter and Arfsten (who made the squad) are already settled in the Championship. Morris, who narrowly missed out on the tournament, is the experienced guide in the house.

Three young Americans. One shared home. One Premier League dream.