USMNT: 5 Players who should test themselves in Europe

LEIRIA, PORTUGAL - NOVEMBER 14: Antunes of Portugal competes for the ball with Tyler Adams of USA during the International Friendly match between Portugal and USA at Estadio Municipal Leiria on November 14, 2017 in Leiria, Portugal. (Photo by Octavio Passos/Getty Images)
LEIRIA, PORTUGAL - NOVEMBER 14: Antunes of Portugal competes for the ball with Tyler Adams of USA during the International Friendly match between Portugal and USA at Estadio Municipal Leiria on November 14, 2017 in Leiria, Portugal. (Photo by Octavio Passos/Getty Images)
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TAMPA, FL – JULY 12: Kellyn Acosta
TAMPA, FL – JULY 12: Kellyn Acosta

It’s clear that the United States best players are those playing in Europe. This is evident by the play of Christian Pulisic and John Brooks.

One of the contributing factors to the U.S. not qualifying for the World Cup was a core group of players coming back to play in Major League Soccer during their prime. Yes, Altidore and Bradley just won the MLS Cup, but they were outplayed by Trinidad and Tobago players who play in the North American Soccer League.

The MLS has done a great job at making fellow CONCACAF teams stronger. However, it’s hindering U.S. Soccer.

For the U.S. to emerge in 2022, a certain group of players need to test themselves in Europe. Let’s see who they are…