A New Era for US Soccer...Potentially

Juergen Klinsmann -- Getty Images

I've been waiting for this moment for what seemed like forever. Today it was announced that Juergen Klinsmann is the new coach of the US Men's National Soccer team. It's about time. 
Never have I been much of a fan of Bob Bradley as coach of the USMNT. Some fans pointed to the victory over Spain in the 2009 Confederation's Cup as a turning point in American soccer, but unfortunately I think it was more of a fluke. The US performed poorly in the 2010 World Cup, despite the thrilling conclusion of the game against Algeria that put the United States in the round of 16. The United States was in the easiest group and subsequently lost to Ghana, just like it did in the 2006 World Cup. The US had consistently lost or tied in international friendly matches and the team's loss to Mexico in this year's Gold Cup really marks it's decline. Something had to give.
Juergen Klinsmann has a tough task ahead of him to say the least. Change has been long overdue though and bringing in a coach with experience, talent, and fresh ideas could be the catalyst US soccer needs. I don't believe that coaching is the only problem facing the USMNT or soccer in the United States in general. Culture is also part of the problem, as well as money. Money is necessary to build and recruit a solid squad and the MLS is certainly not the best paying sports league in the nation. Juergen Klinsmann can't completely change how the United States views soccer, but if he can build enthusiasm for the team in addition to building a stronger team, this could be a momentous occasion for American soccer.

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