Cade Cowell's career has hit a lull.
In July 2024, “El Vaquero” was named Liga MX Player of the Month, starting the Apertura with three goals in five games and fueling hopes of a breakout. For a U.S. men’s national team in need of winger depth, Cowell’s blend of pace, power, and size made his rise all the more promising. But the momentum didn’t last.
Despite playing a key role throughout Olympic qualifying and pre-Games friendlies, Cowell was left off the final roster for Paris - a surprise to many. Rumors swirled that Chivas blocked his participation, though nothing was confirmed. Regardless, it was a major missed opportunity.
He returned to the senior USMNT in September under interim manager Mikey Varas, logging just 17 minutes over two matches. He missed Mauricio Pochettino’s first camp in October, then earned a Nations League call-up in November - only to play 12 minutes. A player once trending upward was now slipping out of the picture.
In 2025, he's scored just one goal since the flip of the calendar year, and it arrived on Saturday in an Apertura match against Atletico San Luis, Chivas' final match before they begin their Leagues Cup campaign against the New York Red Bulls on Thursday. Was it a sign the still-developing winger is back to his best? The USMNT could certainly use his skillset if he's on form.
Cowell may be struggling overall, but he's not out of the USMNT picture - and the Leagues Cup might be his best shot at turning things around.
GOAL looks at why the MLS–Liga MX tournament could be the spark he needs.
