Johnny Cardoso has adjusted nicely to La Liga side Real Betis but the potential of moving to another top European league has the U.S. men’s national team midfielder excited to improve his game.
Cardoso remains a high prospect for several European clubs this month this year after a quick adjustment from Brazil to Spain. The New Jersey native has made 38 combined appearances for Real Betis since his move from Internacional last season, scoring two goals and adding three assists.
Cardoso was linked a potential move to Tottenham last summer, with the English Premier League club reportedly securing a first priority option to acquire him in the near future. However, the 23-year-old has remained in Manuel Pellegrini’s squad this winter, playing a key role in the club’s involvement in three separate competitions.
Whether or not Tottenham, or another club, does make an offer for Cardoso in the coming weeks, it hasn’t stopped the thriving midfielder from wanting to continue getting better on the field.
“This [transfer interest] motivates me even more to continue working, evolving and seeking to achieve great goals. It has been a very special year, with a lot of learning and development. I have adapted very well here,” Cardoso said in an interview with Marca.
“I think I have gained more experience, I have improved as an athlete both technically and tactically and I continue to evolve. I am still working to get better and better,” he added.”
Cardoso and Real Betis resume their domestic schedule on Saturday against Huesca in Copa Del Rey action.
The USMNT midfielder will hope to be part of Mauricio Pochettino’s third squad when the Americans face Panama in the CONCACAF Nations League semifinals this March.
