USMNT expert Alexi Lalas talks on expectations for the Paris Olympics

Former USA star Alexi Lalas recently shared his insights on what means ‘success’ for the United States men’s national team (USMNT) at the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics, reported by GOAL. With the Tokyo Olympics fast approaching, Lalas emphasized the importance of young American players seizing the opportunity to showcase their talent and stake a claim for future inclusion in the USMNT squad for the 2026 World Cup.

Lalas’s perspective on success for the USMNT at the Olympics is clear: he wants to see emerging talent shine on the international stage. In his view, success is defined by young players demonstrating their readiness to compete at the highest level and challenging for positions in the full USMNT squad before the 2026 World Cup. This emphasis on youth development underscores the importance of nurturing talent and building a strong foundation for future success.

What Alexi Lalas said

Lalas said: “For the US men’s Olympic team, all I want to come out of the Olympics this summer are a few players who show they can legitimately challenge for places on the full USMNT before 2026. That’s success.”

As the USMNT prepares for the Olympics, Lalas highlights the significance of established young stars such as Yunus Musah, Folarin Balogun, and Gio Reyna. These players have the opportunity to showcase their skills and prove their worth on the global stage. With three overage players permitted to participate in the competition, the Olympics serve as a platform for emerging talent to gain valuable experience and make their mark on the international scene.

While the Olympics offer a valuable opportunity for young players to shine, Alexi Lalas acknowledges that the USMNT’s primary focus remains on the Copa America. As the team gears up for major tournaments, including the 2026 World Cup on home soil, Lalas emphasizes the importance of prioritizing competitions that provide the toughest tests and opportunities for growth. The Copa America presents a significant challenge for the USMNT, and success in this tournament will be a key indicator of the team’s progress and readiness for future competitions.

Next steps for USMNT

With international friendlies against Colombia and Brazil on the horizon, Gregg Berhalter’s side faces important tests against top-tier opposition. These matches provide an opportunity for players to showcase their abilities and stake their claim for inclusion in the Olympic squad. As preparations continue, Berhalter will be closely monitoring player performances and evaluating his options for the upcoming tournaments.

As the USMNT prepares to compete in the Paris Olympics, the focus remains on identifying and developing young talent. With the goal of building a competitive squad for the 2026 World Cup, Lalas’s vision for success emphasizes the importance of nurturing emerging stars and providing them with opportunities to excel on the international stage. As the team looks ahead to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, Lalas’s insights serve as a guiding principle for the USMNT’s ongoing development and growth.