Kevin Paredes back in training for Wolfsburg as rising USMNT winger inches closer to return from injury

Wolfsburg posted a video to social media on Tuesday showing U.S. international Kevin Paredes back in training as he inches back toward his return from injury. The American originally suffered the injury during preseason and has since been out of action with a fractured foot. He hasn't featured in a competitive match since the U.S. U-23s were knocked out of the Olympics by Morocco last summer.

"Step by step! Kevin is taking part in parts of the team training again," Wolfsburg said in the post on X.

Paredes' potential return will be very big news for Wolfsburg, particularly considering the fact that it seemed like this season would be the winger/defender's breakout in the Bundesliga. After starring at the Olympics, Paredes was reportedly told by coach Ralph Hassnhuttl that he would be a bigger part of the club's first-team plans this season, but his preseason injury robbed him of that chance.

Paredes joined Wolfsburg in January 2022, signing from D.C. United for a reported $7.35 million fee. He's already made 55 total appearances for the club, with 52 coming in the Bundesliga.

The club currently sits seven in the Bundesliga, but just four points behind Mainz for that fourth and final Champions League spot.

In addition to his two-goal performance at teh Olympics last summer, Paredes has also earned three caps with the senior team. He was awarded with U.S. Soccer's Young Male Player of the Year in 2023, the same year he earned his first international cap.

Wolfsburg will no doubt take their time in reintroducing Paredes, although the club is under pressure to earn points and stay alive in the Bundesliga's European race. Up next is a home match this Saturday as they play host to St. Pauli.