MLS star Jack McGlynn explains decision to snub Ireland call-up

November 27, 2025

MLS star Jack McGlynn has explained his decision to snub an international call-up from Ireland.

McGlynn is enjoying a breakout season in the United States, tallying seven goals and seven assists across all competitions for the Houston Dynamo.

The 22-year-old has played for the USMNT since the start of 2024, earning his first cap in a friendly loss to Slovenia.

He was selected by Mauricio Pochettino for the CONCACAF Gold Cup earlier this year, featuring in all six games as the USA finished runners-up to Mexico.

America automatically qualified for next year’s World Cup alongside Canada and Mexico as the three host nations.

If McGlynn had declared for the boys in green, he’d still be battling for that target with Ireland drawing Czech Republic in a play-off semi-final next March.

Why did Jack McGlynn reject Ireland?

On a US Soccer Podcast appearance, McGlynn clarified why he turned down approaches from the Emerald Isle.

Former Ireland manager Stephen Kenny, who held the hot seat from 2020 to 2023, is believed to have sounded out the possibility of bringing McGlynn across the Atlantic.

“I talked a lot with the Irish coaches, and the federation for a couple years leading up to when I made my choice. I got called into there a couple of times.

“But I turned them down. I know my dad is from Ireland and most of my family is from Ireland but for me, I’ve always felt American. I’m a New Yorker.

“It was never really a choice for me. I’ve always wanted to play for America.”

WATCH: Jack McGlynn’s first USNMT goal

WHAT A MOMENT. WHAT A GOAL!

Jack McGlynn puts us ahead in style!#USMNT x @VW pic.twitter.com/2lVHMGRURJ

— U.S. Soccer Men’s National Team (@USMNT) January 18, 2025

McGlynn attracted Deadline Day interest from Serie A’s Parma

The highly-rated youngster was reportedly the subject of Deadline Day interest from Serie A outfit Parma in September, who reached out to Houston for an asking price.

Parma decided they couldn’t afford the move and left it there but it wouldn’t be a surprise to see more European clubs explore his services in the near future.

McGlynn made his MLS debut in April 2021 for the Philadelphia Union, netting eight goals and recording 16 assists in 135 total appearances for the club.

Houston came knocking in February 2025 and Philadelphia sold the player for $2.1million with $1.3million in add-ons, retaining a sell-on percentage of any future transfer.