10-12-2017, 08:56 AM
The talent pool from the U.S. is arguably better than it's ever been, including an improving MLS plus a lot playing internationally. You can see a pretty big list here including many under the radar: http://www.yanks-abroad.com/content.php?mode=players
As others have said, talent isn't the problem. We used to compete with lesser talent because we were scrappy and prepared. While talent levels are getting better in other CONCACAF countries (ironically helped by MLS in some cases) we have more talent available than most of our region apart from Mexico. Complacency and a sense of entitlement are the problems, which starts with leadership but is shared with the players as well. That shouldn't be the case of course: even if we had qualified we are a long ways away from competing on a world stage.
I wish we could have fielded our 2002 World Cup team. Although also coached by Bruce Arena with many from a then-weaker MLS, the spirit was much different. As Tony Sanneh (2002 defender) posted on Twitter Tuesday night: "Remember this moment and never assume. You are not great unless you are able to be great."
As others have said, talent isn't the problem. We used to compete with lesser talent because we were scrappy and prepared. While talent levels are getting better in other CONCACAF countries (ironically helped by MLS in some cases) we have more talent available than most of our region apart from Mexico. Complacency and a sense of entitlement are the problems, which starts with leadership but is shared with the players as well. That shouldn't be the case of course: even if we had qualified we are a long ways away from competing on a world stage.
I wish we could have fielded our 2002 World Cup team. Although also coached by Bruce Arena with many from a then-weaker MLS, the spirit was much different. As Tony Sanneh (2002 defender) posted on Twitter Tuesday night: "Remember this moment and never assume. You are not great unless you are able to be great."