Can ‘slow progress’ lead the United States to produce a top-20 player in the world?
The United States men's national soccer team is experiencing a talent deficit, with head coach Mauricio Pochettino acknowledging the need for improvement. While the talent pool is growing, experts believe it will take time to produce a top-20 player in the world. The development of Major League Soccer (MLS) is seen as a crucial factor in enhancing player development in the country.
- ▪Head coach Mauricio Pochettino highlighted a talent deficit in the US men's national team after recent losses to Portugal and Belgium.
- ▪Experts agree that while the talent pool is improving, producing a top-20 player will take time and effort.
- ▪The development of MLS has become essential for nurturing young talent in American soccer.
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Christian Pulisic is widely seen as the United States’ best player, but it’s debatable whether he cracks the top 100 in the world. Photograph: Shaun Clark/ISI Photos/Getty ImagesView image in fullscreenChristian Pulisic is widely seen as the United States’ best player, but it’s debatable whether he cracks the top 100 in the world. Photograph: Shaun Clark/ISI Photos/Getty ImagesUSACan ‘slow progress’ lead the United States to produce a top-20 player in the world? Figures from around the American men’s soccer scene agree that the talent level is rising, but much work remains to improve the US men’s national teamSanjay SujanthakumarSat 23 May 2026 06.00 EDTLast modified on Sat 23 May 2026 06.01 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleThe US men’s national team roster for the 2026 World Cup will…
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