In 2026, with the euphoria of the World Cup and an MLS full of stars, optimism seems to reign in soccer in the United States. However, Steve Cherundolo, a historic national team player and former LAFC coach, has poured cold water on the current state of the country’s youth system.
During a recent chat with former teammate Cobi Jones on the LA Galaxy’s YouTube channel, Cherundolo was blunt in comparing the level of local development with the traditional powerhouses of Europe and South America.
Steve Cherundolo questions US soccer
For Cherundolo, the problem is not a lack of talent, but the structure of competition. According to the former defender, the United States is still in a phase of constant “chasing”.
We are about 70 years behind in the development of this sport in our country
“We can’t be afraid to copy what already works elsewhere: creating systems where players are forced to level up to be demanded week in, week out,” added the former United States international.
Criticism of youth football
One of the most controversial points of his speech was the criticism of the high scores in the lower categories (U12 and U14). Cherundolo explained that seeing scores of 10-0 or 10-1 in matches between the LAFC and Galaxy academies benefits no one.
Cherundolo established three key points:
- Irrelevant matches: Winning by a landslide prevents young players from facing adversity.
- The need to lose: According to the coach, real growth occurs when the player fails and must seek solutions under pressure.
- Quality over quantity: “I’d rather LAFC and the Galaxy play 30 times a year if it guarantees meaningful games,” he added.
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