Ex-US Soccer Star Raises Concern Over Current MLS Tradition – “Don’t See Enough Americans on the Field”

Major League Soccer has indeed carved out its own unique identity over the years. It remarkably stands on its own two feet among the world’s top leagues, like the Premier League, La Liga, and Serie A. However, despite such success, a former US Soccer star has highlighted major concerns over the MLS. He suggested that many teams lack certain ‘positions of influence.’

Glenn Davis feels that there are still a lot of things where US soccer can do a lot better. Speaking in Alexi Lalas’ ‘State of the Union’ podcast, the sportscaster claims that it is US youth soccer and player development that are ‘putting more players in Europe.’ He insisted that many contemporaries do things ‘the right way’ due to their motivation for money. “I have concerns about MLS and the American player right now and the opportunity that they’re getting. I’m seeing a lot of games where I don’t see enough Americans on the field certainly not in positions of influence on some of these teams,” said Davis. 

The former USA international urged the need for stronger leadership in US soccer. Additionally, he stated that people should be more protective of women’s soccer. While sharing his own experience working with several male and female coaches, including a female youth soccer club called the Hurricanes, he concluded, “I just wish a few more people would defend the women’s game and women’s sports because it’s come such a long way.” 

Perhaps Davis is subtly questioning the MLS team for fielding foreign players over homegrown talents. However, that doesn’t deny the overall ability of an MLS team. At least that’s what the host Lalas once said about America’s top flight.

USMNT legend asserts MLS teams are Premier League quality

Days ago, Alexi Lalas answered a query on X posed by a fan. The fan questioned where the best MLS team would finish in the Premier League table. Interestingly, the USMNT icon succinctly replied, “Mid-table.” Perhaps the former defender is confident that the likes of Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami, Minnesota United, and LA Galaxy can provide significant competition to several English sides. However, the world club rankings beg to differ from the perspective put forward by Lalas. 

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According to FootballDatabase, Manchester City holds the top spot with 2084 points. The first MLS team listed is the Philadelphia Union, positioned at 372nd with 1475 points, while Inter Miami ranks at 1072. Even teams from Liga MX are ahead of MLS clubs. Shockingly, Nottingham Forest, placed 18th in the Premier League, ranks 157th. Interestingly, Leeds United from the Championship stands at 302.

This somehow explains why MLS teams have started focusing on acquiring more foreign players rather than nurturing grassroots talent. Nevertheless, let’s hope that US soccer considers Glenn Davis’ advice to revive their tradition. What do you make of the US soccer legend’s thoughts on the matter? Let us know in the comments section below.