Is the US men's soccer team bad? There are many reasons for this, including lack of talent, ineffective tactics, and pay-to-play. I'll address each one in turn. Each member of the US Men's Soccer team must improve
McKennie is the best midfielder on the team
McKennie is a great American men's soccer midfielder. This 23-year-old is a household name in parts of Europe, and has a unique background. He was born in Little Elm, Texas and has a Dallas skyline tattoo at his elbow. His father is an Airman. He spent most years of his youth in Texas, before moving to Germany with FC Schalke 04 at age 17. He will transfer to Juventus for 2020.
Gregg Berhalter’s tactics don’t work
It's easy to understand why some people have questioned whether Berhalter's tactics haven't been effective for the USMNT. His attempt to recruit dual-nationals like Yunusmusah hasn't worked. The midfielder was born in New York City, but could have played for Ghana, Italy, England, or Spain.
Talent shortage
The United States men's national soccer team has a serious problem with its talent pool. There is much talk in international soccer about "golden generations" or teams that rise and falls. That doesn't necessarily mean that the United States is without talent. It just means we need more of it. It is not always as simple as it seems. Although it's not as simple as hiring a superstar, it is the first step.
Pay-to-play
Some believe that USMNT's performance in tournament qualifying and tournaments is due to poor pay-toplay. Although this may be true, it is also a contributing factor to the poor performance in other soccer/football-powerhouse nations. Iceland, for example. They paid hundreds of coaching staff to obtain UEFA licences and other credentials. More qualified coaches mean better quality players.
Manufacture of insufficient firepower
Over the past 20 years, the USMNT has been moving upwards steadily. But now it is facing serious problems: A lack in firepower. The team's loss to Honduras was a devastating blow. It has lost 14 of its last 14 matches. This week's performance has provoked many cathartic rants. But what can the team actually do to improve things?