Tanner Tessmann’s career has been nothing short of extraordinary. A gifted athlete, Tessmann faced a life-changing decision in 2020: play college football as a kicker at Clemson University or pursue a professional soccer career. He chose the latter, signing with Major League Soccer’s FC Dallas as a homegrown player, and the rest is history.
Early Career and FC Dallas Breakthrough
Born in Alabama, Tessmann’s soccer journey began at the BUSA Soccer Academy. In 2016, he moved to the FC Dallas academy, a transition that would lay the foundation for his professional career. While developing his skills at the Dallas academy, Tessmann also played for North Texas SC, FC Dallas’ USL League One affiliate, where he gained invaluable experience in a professional environment.
Tessmann made his MLS debut for FC Dallas on February 29, 2020, starting in a 2–0 win against the Philadelphia Union and even registering an assist. Over the course of his rookie season, he played in 19 matches, starting nine times and logging over 1,000 minutes. Tessmann also shone during the 2020 MLS playoffs, converting a crucial penalty in a shootout victory over the Portland Timbers and earning his first postseason start in a tight match against the Seattle Sounders.
In 2021, Tessmann continued to grow as a player, starting six of the first 12 matches of the season before catching the attention of international scouts. His performances demonstrated his ability to play at higher levels, which led to his next career milestone.
Moving to Europe: Serie A and Ligue 1
On July 15, 2021, Tessmann made the leap to European football, signing with Serie A club Venezia. His time in Italy was pivotal in his development, as he gained valuable experience playing against some of the best teams and players in the world.
In 2024, Tessmann took another step forward in his career by signing with Ligue 1 club Lyon. Now playing as a midfielder for one of France’s most storied clubs, Tessmann continues to refine his game, showcasing his technical skills, vision, and leadership on the field.
USMNT Success and Olympic Glory
Tessmann’s decision to pursue soccer over football also paid off on the international stage. In 2024, he captained the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) during the Olympics, leading the team with poise and determination. His performances throughout the tournament solidified his reputation as a leader and one of the brightest talents in American soccer.
Following the Olympics, Tessmann delivered standout performances for the USMNT in international matches, demonstrating his ability to excel at the highest level. His combination of defensive tenacity and attacking creativity has made him an indispensable part of the national team setup.
A Bright Future
Tessmann’s journey from the FC Dallas academy to the international stage is a testament to his talent, determination, and willingness to take risks. From his roots in Alabama to his current role as a key midfielder for Lyon and the USMNT, Tessmann has continually risen to the occasion, proving himself as one of the most promising American soccer players of his generation.
As he continues to thrive in Ligue 1 and represent the U.S. on the world stage, Tessmann serves as an inspiration for young athletes navigating their own paths, showing that bold decisions and hard work can lead to extraordinary success.