You know what time of year it is. For those unaware, the season’s end marks the tradition of US Soccer awarding the Player of the Year titles. More than the men’s side, things seem to be heating more on the women’s side. The nominees include Trinity Rodman, Sophia Smith, Mallory Swanson, Naomi Girma, and the recently retired Alyssa Naeher running for this honor. While everyone has their favorites, Alexi Lalas is vouching for Naomi Girma, whom Emma Hayes has called the best defender in the world.

“I don’t think there’s anybody going to argue with that,” began the USMNT icon on the latest episode of the State of the Union podcast. Alexi Lalas was asked about his pick for the US Soccer Female Player of the Year. He even made this selection on behalf of his fellow co-host, Stu Holden. “You had Emma talk about her as the best defender in the world. I think that’s reflected in the awards that she’s winning.”

“I think it’s reflected in that when this team was at its worst a couple years ago, Naomi Girma was still, ‘Hey, this is a diamond in the rough.’ This is somebody that is shining even when difficulties are there and the challenges. And then as this team came out of its rut and gotten back on top with the Olympics and everything, it’s Naomi Girma,” continued Lalas.

Well, it’s true; Even though the likes of the trio of Rodman, Smith, and Swanson had their stellar moments, with even Naeher also getting her deserved recognition, one can’t rule out the special shoutout that Girma deserves. Winning the 2023 U.S. Soccer Female Player of the Year, US Defender of the Year, and NWSL Defender of the Year, the 24-year-old has solidified the backline of her nation like never before.

No wonder Lalas proudly labels the San Diego Waves star as the successor of an iconic defender. “That Becky Sauerbrunn spot has been filled, I also think that spot has been upgraded and that release valve and that protection that she provides I think is so important for Emma and Co.,” concluded the USMNT icon, who also played as a defender in his time.

It seems the Olympic heroics of Triple Espresso—or even Naeher’s, for that matter—haven’t impressed Lalas or Stu Holden, as both fervently backed Girma to win the award. Speaking of which, shall we hear about his views on the men’s side? 

Sharing the spotlight in the US Soccer awards with Naomi Girma will be Christian Pulisic for Alexi Lalas!

For the US Soccer Best Men’s Player of the Year award, Christian Pulisic is the man to win in the eyes of Alexi Lalas. “I don’t think there is anybody else who would argue when it comes to Pulisic, except maybe Stu Hoden,” remarked the pundit. Of course, he was right as his fellow co-host snubbed Mr. Captain America for Antonee Robinson.

“I think his club season has skyrocketed him into the conversation of one of the best left-backs in the PL,” asserted Stu Holden, heaping praise over the Fulham superstar’s remarkable evolution and growth. He also highlighted the load management and consistency of Robinson, making his choice clear regarding the men’s award.

What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments.