Recent news has Jozy Altidore the 17 year old New York Red Bulls striker potentially headed to Europe during the transfer period.
The Red Bulls have said “no way Jose” to his moving over-seas.
So what is the right thing for this young American talent who many are projecting stardom for?
With Brian McBride retiring, Brian Ching injury concern, and Eddie Johnson not proven at the international level this position is one of concern for the U.S. We certainly don’t have a player up front currently as dangerous and proven as Mexico’s Nery Castillo.
Altidore recently spoke to ESPN.com about the potential of going overseas.
“There was a time I said to myself I am not going to go there until I am 21,” said Altidore. “When I am more mature and able to take care of myself and live a life like that but then again I thought about the soccer aspect of it. If I wait until I am 21 there might be a big drop off there so the younger the better. The quicker you can get there the better.”
It might sound as though Jozy wants to get over for these next formative years, some might cite the concerns of going to a big club so early but there is always the option to loan him out to a smaller club. His transfer fee clearly would be the highest paid for a U.S. player ever if it were to come off.
Another year in New York could be good playing alongside Colombian striker Juan Pablo Angel but the training conditions, new coach(whomever that might be) and other intangibles could make the move to Europe even more attractive.
Altidore is mature beyond his years and seems to have his eye on the prize. He is an exciting talent to watch develop. Could he be ready for a role at the next World Cup? Why not becomes hopefully because right now it is thin up front. Will U.S. coach Bob Bradley fast track him? I believe so.
Have your say on Jozy Altidore?