US Soccer Players In Europe

Interesting article on TWWL today from a David Mosse regarding the state of the American soccer player trying to break through in European leagues. He calls it a glass ceiling, and makes a passing mention to it being similar to the Jackie Robinson situation with MLB. While i think that's a bit extreme, he makes some good points.

The Americans most talented players are struggling to gain a footing with top teams in top leagues in Europe, often because of an unwillingness to even give them a chance to earn playing time (Fulham FC notwithstanding of course. They are the only club that has given Americans substantial opportunity and playing time, and have been rewarded nicely. Curious to note also that that success has come in the form of forwards Brian McBride, Clint Dempsey, and at least a chance for Eddie Johnson. Forward has always been the weakest position for American players, yet they are finding success at Fulham given the opportunity).

The US Men's National Team has made gigantic strides the last twenty years in making themselves a respectable and respected outfit, becoming arguably the kings of CONCACAF. The individual players, however, still struggle mightily to garner that same respect. It is something that will need to change for the US Team to make the next step; In order for the players to grow and mature their skills, they need to be playing in the top leagues with the top teams. It becomes a sort of self-fulfilling prophecy. With players not being given opportunities because of their supposed lack of skill, and the player not able to hone that skill against the best of the best.

It is frustrating to watch America's most talented soccer players toil in obscurity in second-rate divisions and sit on the bench in first divisions in Europe. As Mosse points out in his story, they will need a player that can break through that 'glass ceiling' and show the Americans are worth the time and effort. For my money, look for that player to be Michael Bradley, who after absolutely killing in the Dutch league with Herenveen last year, has moved onto Borussia Monchengladbach in the German Bundesliga this year. While Gladbach is stuck in near relegation zone, Bradley has excelled with them. If anyone is poised to break through in a top League with a top team, it will be Bradley, and soon.

Once that happens, expect even more opportunities for Americans abroad, and a new found level of play for the US Men's National Team as a result...