Auston Trusty claims he's 'set up' for Harry Kane Champions League test after USMNT & Celtic star's previous battles against Wayne Rooney & Zlatan Ibrahimovic

During his early years in Major League Soccer (MLS) with the Philadelphia Union, USMNT star Trusty gained invaluable experience when he faced Ibrahimovic in 2018. The Swedish superstar, who had already achieved legendary status with clubs like Juventus, Barcelona, Inter Milan, and Paris Saint-Germain, was the main attraction when the LA Galaxy visited Philadelphia. The match ended in a 3-1 defeat for Trusty’s team, with Ibrahimovic getting on the scoresheet, but for the young defender, it was a learning experience rather than a setback. He also faced the likes of Wayne Rooney and David Villa when the strikers crossed the Atlantic to sign with D.C. United and New York City FC, respectively, after glittering careers in Europe.

Now playing at the highest level with Celtic, Trusty is relishing the opportunity to prove himself on the Champions League stage as the Scottish side prepare for a huge last 16 knockout stage playoff tie against Bayern Munich. Having already experienced the demands of Premier League football during his time with Sheffield United, he remains unfazed by the prospect of facing a world-class striker like Bayern talisman Kane.

Speaking ahead of the first leg of the Champions League playoff at Celtic Park, Trusty shared his excitement: "These are the opportunities where you have to show it. You have to go out there and perform against a team like Bayern Munich, who have huge backing. To play against these guys and these teams, these are the opportunities you want. Harry Kane is a world-class striker but I’ve played against a few.

"I've played against Zlatan. I've played against Rooney. I've played against David Villa. I've played against all the guys in the Premier League, different guys who are doing well now. I feel like I've played against a lot of top guys. You learn from these experiences. Absolutely. It doesn't hurt. The experiences I've had in the past can set me up for this and beyond."

Trusty has already shown that he can hold his own in the Champions League. In Celtic’s 0-0 draw against Atalanta in the league phase, he and Liam Scales delivered an outstanding defensive display to keep out the Serie A side. That performance will give him confidence heading into this high-profile showdown. With Bayern Munich boasting a formidable attack, Trusty will need to be at his very best. Alongside Kane, Leroy Sane, Jamal Musiala, and Kingsley Coman also present a constant goal threat, making it crucial for Celtic’s defence to remain disciplined and composed.

While the task ahead is daunting, Celtic will have one significant advantage on Wednesday night - their home crowd. Celtic Park is renowned for its electrifying atmosphere, especially on European nights, and Trusty and his teammates will look to draw energy from the fans as they attempt to contain Bayern’s attacking firepower.