US Soccerwise | Is the U.S. Soccer Development Pathway Working?
Summary
This episode of U.S. Soccer Wise examines the evolving role of college soccer in player development, featuring interviews with Philadelphia Union’s John Shearer and former FSU coach Mark Krikorian. The hosts discuss whether NCAA pathways remain viable for elite national team prospects and analyze the value of the system for late developers. Additional topics include concerns over Jedi Robinson’s physical decline, Rokas Pukšas’s move to Middlesbrough, and the competitive landscape of the NWSL versus European leagues.
Topics discussed
Show intro and guest introductions
Sub Bench: Cole Palmer and Jedi Robinson's decline
Yank Abroad: Aiden Morris and Middlesbrough
2027 Women's World Cup schedule and travel concerns
NWSL vs. European leagues: Quality and parity
Scottish Premiership as a development pathway
Interview: John Shearer on college soccer value
Interview: John Shearer on player pathways and MLS Next Pro
Interview: Mark Krikorian on women's college soccer
Interview: Mark Krikorian on development and transfers
Interview: Mark Krikorian on future of USWNT and college
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