NFL great Tom Brady is getting a lot of heat online after he stepped into the soccer scene sharing his opinion on how to lift the U.S. Men’s National Soccer Team (USMNT) for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. On the Men in Blazers podcast, he shared an idea that some call too simple and not likely. He said the U.S. needs to “find a Messi or Yamal.“
The star with seven Super Bowl championships claimed that getting a top player like Lionel Messi or Lamine Yamal could spark more love for soccer in the U.S, right in time for the World Cup, which the U.S. will host with Canada and Mexico next year.
If we find our Messi or our Yamal, there’s going to be a lot of excitement
To find a star is not an easy job
Brady’s words spread fast, drawing criticism from soccer fans, media, and other sports stars. They noted that while Brady’s thought might lift spirits, it skips over the deep, long work it takes to raise top soccer players, which takes years, not just months.
Some said the U.S. Soccer Federation’s developmental system might be the better way to win, not just hoping for a rare star to pop up.
Ex-NFL champ and Burnley FC part owner J.J. Watt. wanted to share his opinions on the matter too. He hit social media to pokea little bit of fun at Brady’s idea:
The Wisconsin Badgers just need a QB like prime Tom Brady
Watt’s post got laughs but also showed how off Brady’s idea seemed to many.
A big challenge for the USMNT
Brady spoke at a time when U.S. soccer needs to do well and excite people at home for the World Cup ahead. While players like Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, and Gio Reyna have won praise worldwide, the team still misses a huge star like the world-known names.
Yet, Brady keeps dipping into soccer. He just bought into Birmingham City FC, showing he is still into growing the game.
Even if Brady was trying to be light, the feedback shows U.S. soccer fans want real plans, not just quick words. As 2026 nears, the aim stays on laying a strong base, not just hunting for soccer wonders.
The USMNT still has a long way to walk before becoming a first world country in soccer terms. Countries like Brazil, Argentina, Germany, France or Spain invest way more in their soccer academies than the United States, as it is more popular. The fact that the next World Cup will be held at America, it will be a good chance to get more followers for the future.
If worked properly and with patience, the USMNT could be really important and become one of the best in the future, as the U.S. athletes are always competing for high spots in every sport.
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