Noel Buck joins Southampton on loan as USMNT and England vie for international allegiance

Noel Buck is heading to Southampton on loan from the New England Revolution, the two clubs confirmed on Saturday. The Saints have signed the midfielder on a loan deal through January 31, 2025 with an option to purchase. Buck will initially join Southampton's U-21s.

The teenager has made 57 appearances in all competitions for the Revs since signing a Homegrown Player deal in 2022. Across 45 MLS appearances, he has five goals and three assists.

Buck has been at the center of an international battle and, so far, England has been winning handily. The midfielder is eligible for both England and the U.S. men's national team, but Buck has opted to play for England thus far. He's featured for England up to the U-20 level and was a part of that squad as recently as June.

“I feel like [the USMNT hasn't] really given me the time of day to be completely honest,” Buck said in September after arriving at a Revs game wearing an England jersey. “And when I get called to an England camp, you know, it’s an honor for me.

“Wearing this shirt isn’t a symbol of like, screw the U.S. because it’s not. They just haven’t given me the time of day and I want to have a good time and really learn something there.”

"Noel is an extremely talented young player who is very deserving of this opportunity to join Southampton and test himself in a new environment," Revolution Sporting Director Curt Onalfo said. "It has been gratifying to watch Noel's growth as a player from his start in our Academy through his ascendancy to the first team. We look forward to seeing Noel continue his development during this loan spell in England."

"Noel joins us with over 50 professional games under his belt with New England Revolution, and representing England at various age groups," Southampton Academy Director Andy Goldie added.

"That experience, and how he performed on those stages, makes him a really interesting signing for us and the deal provides a great opportunity for us to work closely and learn more about his long term potential over the coming months."

Buck could make his debut as soon as Sept. 13, when Southampton's U-21s face West Brom's U-21s in the Premier League Cup.