U.S. international goalkeeper Matt Turner is making a significant return to the New England Revolution, securing a loan deal from French Ligue 1 side Olympique Lyonnais. This highly anticipated move brings the 31-year-old back to the club where he previously enjoyed immense success, igniting hopes for the struggling MLS side.
Turner’s initial tenure with the Revolution saw him ascend from an undrafted free agent to one of Major League Soccer’s elite goalkeepers. His stellar performances were instrumental in the team’s historic 2021 season, culminating in him winning the MLS Goalkeeper of the Year award as New England clinched the Supporters’ Shield with a record-setting points total.
Following his remarkable run in MLS, Turner sought new challenges in European football, embarking on significant transfer market moves to English powerhouses Arsenal, Nottingham Forest, and later Crystal Palace. However, despite his talent, he struggled to consistently secure a starting spot across these clubs, encountering fierce competition and tactical shifts, a common challenge for American soccer players abroad.
His brief stint with Lyon earlier in 2025 was cut short by unforeseen financial difficulties impacting the French club. Olympique Lyonnais, facing scrutiny from the nation’s soccer watchdog due to substantial debt, prioritized shedding high salaries, which regrettably included Turner’s recent acquisition via a Lyon loan, despite a successful appeal against the initial decision.
Turner’s return to the Revolution sees him rejoin as a Designated Player, a critical MLS designation indicating a salary exceeding the standard cap. This loan deal places New England at the league maximum of three Designated Players on their current roster, though his contract holds the flexibility to convert to another designation in 2026 using Targeted Allocation Money.
The club Matt Turner re-enters is markedly different from the one he departed. Former coach Bruce Arena, under whom Turner thrived, is no longer with the team following an MLS investigation. Most of his former teammates have also moved on, leaving a largely new squad and coaching staff for the experienced goalkeeper to integrate with.
The current state of the New England Revolution is one of significant challenge and fan discontent. Head coach Caleb Porter and sporting director Curt Onalfo are under immense pressure amidst a disheartening nine-game winless run. Positioned 11th in the Eastern Conference, the team finds itself 10 games adrift of the playoff line with only 10 matches remaining, fueling calls for immediate changes from supporters’ groups.
As non-participants in the Leagues Cup, the Revolution are currently on a short break. Their highly anticipated return to action is scheduled for August 9th at Gillette Stadium, where they will face D.C. United. Turner’s arrival, facilitated by this strategic loan deal, is expected to provide a much-needed boost as the team desperately seeks to salvage its season and improve its standing in Major League Soccer.
