Former US men’s national team player Eric Wynalda has revealed details about his ex-teammate John Harkes’ affair with his wife, Amy, expressing a surprising level of forgiveness and even advocating for Harkes’ inclusion in the 1998 World Cup roster.

Harkes, the ex-captain of the US team, was mysteriously left off the 1998 World Cup roster by coach Steve Sampson, who later confirmed that it was due to an improper relationship with Wynalda’s wife. Despite this, Wynalda shared his perspective on the situation in a recent interview with CBS Sports’ Kickin’ It podcast, hosted by Kate Abdo.

According to Wynalda, the affair occurred during a period when he was focused on recovering from an injury and was less present in his marriage. He described his close friendship with Harkes and explained that he lobbied for Harkes to remain on the team despite their personal issues. Wynalda stated that he didn’t want to put his personal problems ahead of the team’s success.

Eric Wynalda (right) and John Harkes (left) were close friends and teammates on the USA team.

Wynalda opened up about the affair that took place between Harkes and his now ex-wife.

Wynalda also mentioned that the affair happened on multiple occasions, and he was informed about it by their teammate Joe Max-Moore. Despite the challenges, Wynalda and Harkes played together one more time after 1998, in a friendly match against Chile in 2000. Harkes has remained with his wife, while Wynalda divorced Amy in 2003 and remarried in 2014.

Wynalda, who last played professionally in 2008, is seen here coaching the Las Vegas Lights in 2019.

In a 2010 interview, Harkes reflected on the difficult time in 1998, stating that it was devastating for him and his family. Wynalda, on the other hand, has moved on and expressed that Harkes is no longer that person. Their story showcases the complexities of personal and professional relationships in the world of sports.