Keys to Making the U.S. a Soccer Powerhouse

The U.S.'s lack of success in the soccer is rather embarrassing. A nation whose culture is almost obsessed with sport, but have been unable to produce world class athletes for the world's most popular game. What's that all about?

The U.S.'s dominance in the Olympics proves that Americans' successes aren't limited to football, basketball, and baseball. More than 3 million youth players are registered for US Youth Soccer. The 2012 Euro Cup final brought in an audience of more than 4 million people. 

The U.S. seems to be at the cusp of becoming a strong soccer nation. These are the key steps that need to happen before the U.S. can become a soccer powerhouse.

Quality Players to the MLS

The MLS needs to import skilled, international players. However, no more former superstars coming to have their careers fizzle out in the U.S. (i.e. Beckham and Henry.) They will have to be under-thirty-year-old all-stars. But who could these players be? Maybe under-utilized young stars, such as Mario Balotelli or Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez.

Two World-Class Strikers Warming the Bench

It seems like a bit of wishful thinking to get these two up-and-comers on MLS teams, but with Mario continuing to wear out his welcome in nearing every league in europe and Chicharito sitting on the bench behind van Persie and Rooney, a move to an American team might look rather attractive to either of them. 

A Meaningful Club Cup to Win

Having quality MLS teams would mean little if they have no major prize to strive for. Even if the league's strong enough to support an exciting league and domestic cup race, American teams will need to compete with the headliners to gain prestige. 

Friendlies are the only MLS and Europe's elite are able to meet

If FIFA were to promote a world club tournament, MLS teams would have a stage to play against europe's best. A FIFA run tournament might be able to take over the role of UEFA's Champions League, which would be good for FIFA as well.

Celebrity Endorsement

Americans love celebrities. Fascinated to learn of their interests, pet peeves, fears, and hobbies, normal civilians are even willing to pay to gain this information. With celebrities' opinions in such high esteem, a few celebrities promoting soccer would do the sport a lot of good.

Celebs showing support

The list of existing celebrity fans includes (but isn't limited to), Tom Hanks, Kobe Bryant, Will Ferrell, Katy Perry, Sylvester Stallone, Mike Tyson, Steve Nash, LeBron James, Cameron Diaz, and Snoop Dogg. Now, if only Spike Lee would be a vocal for his admiration for Arsenal, as he was for the Knicks.

A Messiah

The U.S. needs a messiah. A patriotic young man to go over to europe and be a star for either Arsenal, Barcelona, Chelsea, Liverpool, Madrid, Manchester City or Manchester United. A golden boy playing for a top-shelf club will not only help the global opinion of U.S. soccer, but will peak the interest of people back home. 

Who will this mystery player be?

Having a player making monster money in a global sport might be enticing enough for another youngster to pursue being a striker or a keeper, instead of a running back or a power forward. A poster boy could be the last step in getting rid of the of the remaining "anti-soccer" minority in the U.S.