Was Donovan overstating the ability of American players to emphasize Klinsmann’s role in the U.S. team’s disastrous start of World Cup qualifying? With 18-year-old Christian Pulisic and veteran Clint Dempsey leading the attack, the Americans played with flair. After starting the final stage of World Cup qualifying by falling to Mexico and Costa Rica, the U.S. was in a must-win situation. The constant danger created by Pulisic and Dempsey freed other players to concentrate on doing what they do best. The return of Arena, who previously coached the national team, was widely viewed as a step back for U.S. Soccer.

Source: Los Angeles Times March 25, 2017 15:56 UTC