The U.S. men's national team has a lot of work to do to recover the trust of fans after embarrassingly missing out on the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
It was the first time since 1985 the Stars and Stripes were absent from the world's largest football competition, but better days may be closer than first expected.
With Borussia Dortmund star Christian Pulisic already under foot as one of the most promising young players in the world, the U.S. has found another talented teen in PSG's Tim Weah.
Weah, who started Tuesday night in a 1-1 draw against Peru, has blistering pace, fancy footwork and a devilishly tricky shot. The 18 year old has a famous father in George Weah, currently the President of Liberia, so pedigree is on his side.
Many have already said Weah has been the team's best player while Pulisic remains sidelined from international football with an injury. The only problem: they play the same position.
Josh Sargent, another talented youngster scored for the U.S. Tuesday night, but Weah was a danger on the felt-hand flank, occupying Pulisic's favored position.
While it might be difficult, when at full strength, for the USMNT to get Weah and Pulisic on the field at the same time, it's important the two become comfortable together.
Like most talented teens, Weah's potential outweighs his production. He is reportedly seeking a January loan move away from PSG to get more playing time. He's provided glimpses of hope for the USMNT, but hasn't looked consistently poised in front of goal.
Practicing against superstars Neymar, Kylian Mbappe and Edinson Cavani should also help Weah mature as a player. Studying their moves and identifying their weaknesses will be great learning tools for Weah moving forward.
Both Weah and Pulisic are young stars on big European clubs. Can they help lead the USMNT out of the doom of 2018? We are sure to soon find out.
