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The USMNT team now has another dual national. It was reported today that the 23-year-old midfielder from Pensacola, Florida had his one-time switch from Israel to the United States approved.
Kenny Saief's switch from Israel to the United States has been approved by FIFA
— Brian Sciaretta (@BrianSciaretta) June 22, 2017
Previously, Saief represented Israel at the U-19 and U-20 levels as well as 2 matches with the senior team, which facilitated the required one-time switch. The KAA Gent midfielder is now automatically cap-tied to the United States. Saief was named to Bruce Arena’s preliminary Gold Cup roster, which kicks off in July. With the switch, he is now eligible to be selected to the final 23-man roster.
Saief has Champions League experience with Gent. Last season, he played in 47 matches across all competitions, scoring 8 goals and providing 5 assists for the Belgian side. One of those goals came in the UEFA Europa League. Saief provides a good left-sided attacking option for Bruce Arena.
The USSF and FIFA are still waiting on one-time switch papers for FC Dallas goalkeeper Jesse Gonzalez, who alongside Saief is part of the preliminary Gold Cup roster.