Tom Brady Criticized for USMNT Messi Comparison by Fans, J.J. Watt

Tom Brady, the legendary NFL quarterback and current minority owner of Birmingham City FC, recently sparked debate with his comments on improving the U.S. Men's National Soccer Team (USMNT) ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. On the Men in Blazers podcast, Brady suggested that the USMNT needs a young superstar akin to Lionel Messi or Lamine Yamal to ignite a cultural revolution for soccer in America. While his enthusiasm for the sport and its growth in the U.S. is clear, many soccer fans, media, and fellow athletes mocked his oversimplified idea, emphasizing that developing top talent requires years of systemic effort rather than hoping for a rare phenom to emerge. Former NFL star J.J. Watt humorously responded by comparing Brady's notion to a college football team needing a player like prime Tom Brady, highlighting the unrealistic nature of the suggestion. Critics also pointed out that the U.S. already has talented players like Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie, but the sport's limited popularity and marketing challenges remain significant hurdles. Despite the backlash, Brady's comments underline the broader desire to see American soccer rise on the global stage as the World Cup approaches.