For United States international James Sands, the move to Bundesliga club St. Pauli represents not just a new chapter in his footballing career but also a significant opportunity to solidify his place in the national team ahead of the World Cup. Sands, a 24-year-old defensive midfielder, joined St. Pauli on loan from New York City FC in January 2023 and has already begun to establish himself as a vital cog in the team’s machinery. With six league appearances under his belt and the last three played as a full 90 minutes, his contributions are evident in the club’s performances. This successful integration into the squad speaks volumes about both his adaptability and the supportive environment crafted by coach Alexander Blessin.
St. Pauli’s aspiration to maintain their position in the Bundesliga, having secured promotion as second division champions, places Sands in a critical role. With multiple new signings—including himself—Sands is part of a group eager to learn and grow together. “The very good group we have is helping us build in the right direction,” Sands commented, highlighting the camaraderie that he believes is essential for success in a new environment.
Sands’ dreams extend beyond club success; he is acutely aware that his performances in Germany could be the key to earning a spot on the U.S. national team for the upcoming World Cup. Having already earned 13 caps and contributed to the U.S. winning the 2021 Gold Cup, he has a solid foundation upon which to build. However, since not making an appearance since the Gold Cup semifinal against Panama in July 2023, Sands knows that he must elevate his game to rekindle interest from national selectors.
“Whether you are included in the World Cup roster is largely out of your hands,” he acknowledges, emphasizing the intrinsic value of consistency and performance. This pragmatic approach allows him to focus on what he can control—his day-to-day contributions at St. Pauli. By honing his skills and delivering strong performances, he hopes to catch the eye of the coaching staff looking to finalize their World Cup lineup.
The road to the World Cup is never easy, and Sands is well aware of the competition he faces. With a plethora of talented players vying for a spot, many of whom are also making their mark in European leagues, the stakes are high. “To be competitive at this level and have a realistic chance at the team, I knew I would need to play at a very high level,” he remarked, underscoring the importance of his move to Germany not only for personal development but also for boosting his international career prospects.
Sands’ versatility, capable of playing in both defensive and central roles, provides an added edge that could work in his favor. His adaptability will be put to the test, having previously helped NYCFC clinch the MLS Cup. Additionally, his loan spell at Rangers in Scotland enriched his experience, although he acknowledges differences in gameplay, noting that his new team at St. Pauli often employs counterattacking tactics in contrast to Rangers’ possession-focused approach.
Sands believes these various playing styles will ultimately contribute to his growth as a footballer. “Exposure to different styles and rhythms makes you a better player,” he noted, reflecting on the distinct flavors of European football he has encountered. There is certainly merit in such diverse experiences, as they not only enhance a player’s skill set but also prepare them for the multifaceted challenges presented by international play.
As St. Pauli prepares for their next league match against Freiburg, positioned 14th in the league, fans and analysts alike will be eager to see how Sands continues to impact the game. Each match is a new opportunity for him—not just to display his talent at the club level but to reinforce his credentials for a potential World Cup call-up.
In a footballing landscape defined by intense competition and high expectations, James Sands remains focused on his journey, firmly believing that with each passing game, he draws closer to realizing his ambitions on the world stage.