WHAT’S NEXT?
USMNT figure Alexi Lalas commented on midfielder Johnny Cardoso`s standing with the national team following news of his possible transfer from Real Betis to Atletico Madrid. Despite a strong season with Real Betis leading to the potential move, the 23-year-old midfielder has found it difficult to consistently perform at the international level. Lalas emphasized that while Cardoso might join Atletico`s ranks, he hasn`t demonstrated sufficient form for the national team to alter its fundamental structure to accommodate him.
Speaking on his State of the Union podcast, Lalas acknowledged that it might seem counterintuitive for a player potentially featuring in La Liga and the Champions League not to be a USMNT starter. However, he argued this situation perfectly illustrates the principle that success relies on fielding the “best collection of players,” not merely the most individually talented, a point he linked to coaching approaches like Mauricio Pochettino`s and the USMNT`s general philosophy.
He further commented that despite Cardoso`s quality, he is not at a level where the team`s strategy should be fundamentally altered to suit him. Therefore, Cardoso must find a way to adjust to the national team`s specific requirements, which, according to Lalas, he has not yet managed, failing to replicate his successful club form.
Lalas expressed confusion regarding the discrepancy between Cardoso`s performances for his club and the national team. He warned that if Cardoso doesn`t resolve this issue, he risks being excluded from the 2026 World Cup roster.
Quoting his own previous remarks, Lalas stated that Cardoso`s positive club form seems to vanish when he represents the national team (“when he gets on that plane or when he puts on that shirt, it goes out the window”). He issued a direct challenge: “he better get his act together when it comes to the national team,” or risk not making the roster next summer, acknowledging this might be a surprising outcome for some.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Cardoso`s potential transfer to Atletico Madrid marks a significant advancement in his club career, positioning him at a top Spanish club. However, Lalas`s observations underscore the ongoing difference between Cardoso`s effectiveness for his club and his impact with the national team. As the 2026 World Cup approaches, the midfielder`s success in bringing his strong La Liga performances to the international stage will be increasingly crucial for the USMNT`s strategic preparations.
WHAT’S NEXT?
Currently, Cardoso is part of the USMNT squad competing in the Gold Cup. The team is scheduled to face Costa Rica in the quarterfinals of the tournament on June 29.
