Jozy Altidore is on the brink of leaving the New England Revolution, with multiple outlets reporting that a loan to Puebla in Liga MX is virtually done.
Fabrizio Romano first reported the news, noting that the loan would run through December 31, 2022. Altidore is expected to arrive in Puebla in the very near future, and per ESPN could even be available for Saturday’s game against San Luis.
Speaking to 98.5 The Sports Hub and to The Bent Musket on Thursday, head coach Bruce Arena confirmed the reports, saying that Altidore had initiated the loan himself.
Altidore joined New England this winter, but has largely been restricted to short substitute appearances. While he’s played in 17 league matches for the Revolution, Altidore only has four starts and 589 league minutes in a New England kit.
Even Adam Buksa’s move to Lens hasn’t opened up many opportunities, as the Revolution have since signed striker Giacomo Vrioni as a Designated Player. Arena has also been willing to play Gustavo Bou up top alone.
Altidore’s motivations aren’t known, but with the U.S. men’s national team striker pool still seemingly in flux, a rich vein of form in Mexico could theoretically vault Altidore back into the mix for Gregg Berhalter’s side at the World Cup.
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