USMNT: Tyler Adams a problem for Gregg Berhalter
Tyler Adams is playing at an exceptional level for RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga. And that poses a problem for Gregg Berhalter and the hybrid right-back role that Adams has been used in for the USMNT.
Gregg Berhalter has made a very positive start to life as the U.S. Men’s National Team head coach. Unbeaten through four matches, progress made in various areas, and some clear tactical approaches implemented, the early goings have been extremely promising.
But there is a developing problem that the former Columbus Crew head coach may have to encounter before too long. And it is not an issue with a lack of talent or a terribly vulnerable position. In fact, it is the opposite. Berhalter has a Tyler Adams problem, because he might be about to waste him.
Adams transferred to RB Leipzig of the Bundesliga in the January transfer window after two breakthrough seasons in the heart of the New York Red Bulls midfield — obviously, the transfer was made easy by both clubs being a part of the Red Bulls franchise. His early form in Germany has been phenomenal.
His manager, Ralf Rangnick, described him as ‘the most sought-after in the MLS [sic]’ when he arrived. But very quickly, he fell in love with his new midfield star. Earlier in April, these are just some of the things that Rangnick had to say about the USMNT prospect:
"“Six, Eight, Ten, full-back — they are all positions in which he can play.” <…> “He has an uncanny sense of the situation when it comes to going out to win the ball.” <…> “Tyler Adams ‘only’ has to get used to life in Germany. On the pitch, he has to continue from where he left off in MLS I can only confirm that… It feels like [Tyler Adams] has been with us for some time.”"
The problem for Berhalter is this:
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In managing a lesser team with lesser talent, it is critical to form a system that accentuates the best abilities of your best players. That was initially believed to be Christian Pulisic. And it still is. But Adams’ recent performances in central midfield have proven that he is now a European-level midfielder and thereby one of the very best players in the USMNT crop.
During the March international fixtures, Adams played a hybrid right-back role, where he was used as a traditional full-back when the U.S. were defending and pushed into the midfield when they had possession. And Adams is the perfect player to play that type of role, with terrific instincts, a wonderful reading of the game, and the athleticism to cover the necessary ground, especially in transition.
But is this role now limiting his effectiveness on the match? Central midfield is a far more valuable and impactful position than right-back, even in the modern game in which full-backs are increasingly important. Surely, it would not make more sense for Adams to be the linchpin of the team, inserted as the pivoting midfielder, shielding the back four?
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Berhalter has an Adams problem. It is not a bad one to have, but it is a problem nonetheless.