Julian Gressel Bio
Julian Emil Kurt Gressel (born December 16, 1993) is a professional soccer player who plays as a full-back for Major League Soccer club Minnesota United. Born in Germany, he represents the United States national team. Gressel began his career in Germany before moving to the United States in 2011, where he played college soccer for the Providence Friars for four seasons. In 2017, he signed a contract with Major League Soccer and was selected in the MLS SuperDraft in the first round with the eighth overall pick by expansion side Atlanta United.
Early Life and Background
Julian Gressel was born in Neustadt, Germany. He began his footballing career by playing in the youth academy systems of the 2. Bundesliga side, SpVgg Greuther Fürth in 2002. In 2009, he left Greuther Fürth and began playing for the academy set-up of Quelle Fürth. Gressel played senior-level football in the German regional fifth-tier, the Bayernliga, where he had one goal and ten assists during the 2011–12 season. The following season, he played for TSV Neustadt/Aisch in the sixth tier, Landesliga Bayern-Nordwest, where he notched three goals and twelve assists during the 2012–13 campaign.
Path to Soccer
Gressel signed a National Letter of Intent before the 2013 NCAA Division I men’s soccer season to play for Providence College’s men’s soccer program. During his freshman season, he was an immediate starter, playing in all 22 fixtures and scoring five goals with four assists. Gressel’s performance helped the Friars reach the championship match of the 2013 Big East Men’s Soccer Tournament. He continued to earn honors during his sophomore and junior seasons, and had a breakout senior year, leading the Friars in total points with 36, accumulating 15 goals and six assists. His impressive collegiate career culminated in being named an NSCAA First Team All-American and a semifinalist for the Hermann Trophy.
Julian Gressel Career
Early Career (2011–2016)
Gressel began his professional career in Germany before moving to the United States. He played for TSV Neustadt/Aisch and Eintracht Bamberg before joining the Providence Friars. His collegiate success led to his selection in the 2017 MLS SuperDraft.
Breakthrough (2017–2019)
Gressel made his professional debut for Atlanta United on March 5, 2017, in a match against New York Red Bulls. He won the 2017 MLS Rookie of the Year honors, playing mostly as a central midfielder. In 2018, Gressel was a key player for the MLS Cup Champions, contributing significantly to the team’s success. He assisted 14 times in league play, forming a strong partnership with striker Josef Martinez. Gressel continued to excel in 2019, assisting 12 times and solidifying his reputation as one of the best crossers in the league.
Notable Works and Milestones
Gressel’s signature work includes his contributions to Atlanta United’s championship run in 2018. He has been recognized for his outstanding performances, including winning the MLS Rookie of the Year award and being part of teams that won the U.S. Open Cup and Campeones Cup.
Julian Gressel Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Julian Gressel has received several nominations, including the prestigious MLS Rookie of the Year award in 2017.
Julian Gressel Awards Won
Gressel has won multiple awards during his career, including the MLS Rookie of the Year in 2017 and contributing to championship victories with Atlanta United.
Julian Gressel Family
Information regarding Julian Gressel’s family is not publicly available.
Personal Life
Julian Gressel became a United States citizen on November 5, 2022. He was called up to the United States Men’s National Team in January 2023 and has since made contributions to the team in international competitions.