Amid Gio Reyna-Gregg Berhalter Drama, ‘Arrogant’ USA Questioned Over Struggling Youth System

The emergence of Gio Reyna to the US soccer scene was spectacular. He made it to the Qatar FIFA World Cup roster for USMNT. However, his presence in Qatar was controversial. The drama unfolded between him and the former USMNT coach Gregg Berhalter. Then it came to light the unnecessary involvement of his father, Claudio Reyna’s involvement, and later the Claudio Reyna-Berhalter controversy.

It showed how parents get involved in the development of their kids, which may harm their progress. It is what has been highlighted by one of the youth coaches recently. He pointed out the arrogance of so-called expert parents harming the development of the youth system in the US.

Is the youth sports system in the US falling apart because of arrogance?

Youth sports systems have a massive impact on the development of any athlete. It affects the confidence of any athlete and teaches him several aspects, like teamwork and dedication, amongst others. It is crucial for physical and mental development. The youth system of any country decides how many superstar athletes the country produces who lead the nation to glory.

Tim Bradbury, the director of coaching for the Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association, thinks this is where the US soccer is suffering. Most of the USMNT stars are the ones that develop outside the country, mostly in Europe. He feels in the US, parents of the upcoming soccer players are the problem.

While writing a column for Front Row Soccer, Bradbury wrote, “One of the things that has always baffled me about the United States is the arrogance and absolute belief that many youth sports parents have that they have been ordained experts in a chosen sport as they have watched some games.”

He added, “A few clubs and communities have, of course, taken the opportunity to call and tell me how wrong we are to suggest that every travel age player deserves a qualified coach.” The US soccer environment for youth needs to change, as there are very few examples of home-grown players in the USMNT team who has come through MLS.

Can Gio Reyna put behind all the controversies and perform?

Borussia Dortmund superstar made it to the World Cup roster but made only two substitute appearances. His relationship was beyond repair with the coach. Meanwhile, the drama between Berhalter and Gio Reyna got a twist when the player issued an apology to the coach and the players for not showing commitment.

READ MORE: “More Confidence for the US Midfield”- USMNT Legend Discuss Recalled USWNT Star to Provide Never-Ending Spark Ahead of 2023 World Cup

Despite all the controversies surrounding Reyna, interim coach of USMNT Anthony Hudson showed confidence in the player. Reyna made it to the March roster for the CONCACAF Nations League games and started both the games against Grenada and El Salvador. It will be interesting to see how Reyna develops.

WATCH THIS STORY: Ten Times Cristiano Ronaldo Four Goals in a Game

Can Gio Reyna make a place for himself for the long term in the USMNT?