Thierry Henry might just be the spark that ignites change in soccer players. Why, you ask? A couple of years ago, the French icon wasn’t impressed with Christian Pulisic and challenged the USMNT star to ‘bring something to the table’ worth discussing. Today, Mr. Captain America is delivering impressive performances, finally earning Henry’s respect as he remarked, ‘Now we can talk.’ Interestingly, similar is the case with another USMNT star, Malik Tillman, who, despite once facing heavy criticism from Henry, now seems to have brought about a change in himself.

Well, for those who aren’t familiar with the PSV Eindhoven star’s case, the 22-year-old once came in the bad books of the Arsenal legend. It all transpired earlier this year in March when the American boys had reunited to face Jamaica for the CONCACAF Nations League semifinals. Notably, a week before the game, Malik Tillman spoke with CBS Sports, admitting he didn’t know much about Jamaica. His comment drew heavy criticism from Thierry Henry, who felt it was disrespectful.

Now, fast forward to today, the USMNT prepares to face Jamaica again in the Nations League. Again, Tillman sat down for another CBS Sports interview. This time, however, he was met with a new crew, and former USMNT striker Charlie Davies jokingly advised him to give a different response about the upcoming rivals. Remarkably, he replied, “It’s gonna be a tough game. Tough two games. But I think we should be confident enough to go there and win.”

“I got to know how they play. I got to know some players. But yeah, that’s football. We go there to win,” added Tillman with all seriousness, before quickly changing his mood to a confused state and answering, “I mean yeah, what am I supposed to say?” concluded Malik.

Playing safe!

That’s all we have to say about Tillman’s latest admission over facing Jamaica. Of course, a more sensible one than what previously he admitted to the media about the Caribbean island nation that upset Henry. Perhaps now the former FC Barcelona and Arsenal forward might agree on the youngster’s view on rivals. If this is not enough, perhaps, his performances can make Henry talk!

Malik Tillman may gone the extra mile to impress and apologize to Thierry Henry!

If not by giving the correct response, then by on-pitch performances instead. Malik Tillman has been in a remarkable form this season. Having arrived at PSV Eindhoven on a permanent deal, the midfielder isn’t letting the Dutch side question their investment so far. In over 17 games across all competitions including the Dutch league, Dutch Cup, and UEFA Champions League, Tillman has notched 6 goals and 4 assists.

He has been giving back-to-back great performances in the majority of the games for his domestic side and he also won the Man of the Match award last week for playing well against Girona in the UCL match. Indeed, fans must be hoping to see the best of him against Jamaica on Thursday night. Perhaps, a repeat of their last meetup months ago, where the Stars and Stripes had secured an emphatic 3-1 victory.

Regardless, let’s see if he’s able to win Thierry Henry’s heart by giving a stand out performance as well!