### Tanner Tessmann’s Rise in European Soccer: A Journey of Determination and Skill
Tanner Tessmann has emerged as a formidable player in European soccer, having honed his skills during highpressure moments which built his confidence. Before making significant contributions at Olympique Lyon, representing the U.S. U23 Men’s National Team at the 2024 Paris Olympics, and earning the 2024 U.S. Soccer Young Male Player of the Year award, Tessmann’s formative experience occurred when his club Venezia faced relegation challenges.
### Thriving Under Pressure with Venezia
In his debut European season, Tessmann transferred from FC Dallas to Venice, joining Venezia in Serie A. Though the club soon faced demotion to Serie B, they narrowly avoided further relegation in 2023 by fighting back to reach the playoffs. This period was crucial for the 19yearold as he embraced challenges, strengthening his resolve to excel regardless of the circumstances.
“That year boosted my confidence, reinforcing the belief that I can rise to the occasion in any team or situation,” Tessmann shared. “The neverquit mentality became ingrained in me, ensuring I focus on future games with faith in my abilities.”
### Impact at Olympique Lyon
Since joining Lyon in 2024, Tessmann has been instrumental in the club’s performance, helping them achieve a sixthplace finish in Ligue 1. He played in 35 matches, scoring once during his first season in France. Despite the financial issues that threatened relegation to Ligue 2, new club president Michele Kang, a prominent figure in women’s soccer, managed to stabilize Lyon’s situation. Tessmann praised Kang’s leadership for maintaining the club’s momentum.
### Recent Performance and Future Goals
This season, Tessmann has made a strong start with 9 appearances and two goals, demonstrating his dedication and teamoriented mindset. “Our team doesn’t have a big star. We are young athletes eager to establish ourselves and showcase our capabilities. We aim to bring Lyon back to the [UEFA] Champions League,” he stated.
Currently, Lyon resides in fourth place in the 202526 Ligue 1 standings, eyeing Champions League qualification. Success in the UEFA Europa League, where Tessmann already scored an essential goal against FC Utrecht, could also secure a Champions League spot.
### Tessmann’s International Ambitions
Amidst this success, Tessmann has featured in five matches for the USMNT under Mauricio Pochettino. Though he last participated in the Concacaf Nations League in March, his persistent mindset has earned him further chances to make an impression ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Having previously captained the U23 team to the Olympic knockout rounds, Tessmann is motivated to secure a position in the World Cup roster. In the upcoming October matches against Ecuador and Australia, he plans to strengthen his case amidst the heavy competition. “We’re determined to be the best National Team and compete for the World Cup title, which demands intense internal competition,” said Tessmann. “Every camp is an opportunity to prove oneself and secure a place in future squads.”