Many observers felt after the US 4-2 loss to Mexico in the Gold Cup final that the plight of US soccer has reversed itself and is heading towards a decline for the forseeable future. Hopes were raised last month with the hiring of Jurgen Klinsmenn and his attacking style of soccer which showcased itself during the last 20 minutes of the US-Mexico friendly this past Wednesday.
Contrary to most soccer pundits, the future is bright for the national team. The teams future success will relay on Klinsmann maximizing the potential of these 9 players.
1) Jozy Altidore (21) Forward, AZ – He has shown flashes of brilliance against Spain in the Confederations Cup mixed in with apathetic play. Klinsmann’s needs to convince the lad to play hard a full 90.
2) Juan Agudelo (18) Forward, NY Red Bulls – The most talented player ever produced by US soccer (all due respect to Mr. Donovan) it is time to hone the raw talent this kid possesses. Could be dynamic upfront with Altidore.
3) Freddy Adu (22) Forward/Midfielder, Philadelphia Union – The key to the 2014 World Cup. If Klinsmann can utilize his talents effectively, it will make the US attack one of the most dangerous in the world.
4) Robbie Rogers (24) Midfielder, Columbus Crew – Rogers blazing speed can cause fits to opposing teams and should fit in nicely with an attack first style Klinsmann intends to implement.
5) Jose Torres (23) Midfielder, Pachuca – Torres can be to the US what Luka Modric is to the Croatia National Team. Great vision, deadly on set pieces.
6) Michael Bradley (24) Midfielder, Borussia – Bradley is best suited to play a holding position and the sooner he adapts to it, the better. He is on shaky ground right now, but can be a key to the future.
7) Tim Ream (23) Defender, NY Red Bulls – Having an inconsistent 2nd season with New York and was benched during the Gold Cup. Still Ream holds too much talent and will eventually be the anchor of the US backline.
8) Michael Orozco (25) Defender, San Luis – Showed great poise during Wednesday friendly against Mexico. Decision making needs to improve, but he has three year to grow before the World Cup.
9) Edgar Castillo (24) Defender, America – Seemed nervous to start the game against Mexico but eventually settled down and was solid. Most talented out of the entire backline.
Klinsmann’s entire legacy will rest on how he maximizes the talents and abilities of these 9 players. If he succeeds, the US will be a top ten team in the world with the potential to make a serious run in the next World Cup.