TopDrawerSoccer.com World Cup Week is coming. 

In anticipation of the world’s sporting event, which opens Thursday in Sao Paulo with a meeting between Brazil and Croatia, TopDrawerSoccer.com is running a comprehensive World Cup Week from Monday through Friday. For five days, we’ll cram in as much World Cup coverage as we can filtered through our unique developmental lens. That includes breakdowns, stories, blogs and more. We hope you’ll be part of the discussion. 

Here’s a glimpse at some of the things we’ll be doing next week.

USMNT 23-man player capsules: We’re breaking down the development histories of all 23 players on the U.S. roster for Brazil. That will include their pre-professional club history, how they made their way up through the ranks and notes on how they got to where they are. As always, we’re concerned with the process as much if not more so than the end product. 

Top under-the-radar young players to watch: The top young players walk into the World Cup as known quantities. Your Neymars, Mario Goetzes, Paul Pogbas. Who might be joining this group in Brazil? A look at some of the best and brightest under the age of 22 who you may not have head of before.

College coaches weigh in: We talked to a selection of college coaches who oversaw the development of a few of the USMNT’s top players. From their early days, what makes these guys tick? You’ll hear it from the source.

Development in the dark ages: Before the Development Academy and Jurgen Klinsmann’s grandiose ideals, how did U.S. Soccer identify and bring along top prospects? The story will cover everything from the primacy of the ODP system in the 80‘s and 90’s to how former players and national team coaches viewed development before the topic was nationally en vogue.

How residency contributed to the World Cup roster: The U17 residency program in Florida’s received mixed reviews, but there’s no question a nucleus of this 2014 World Cup side was reared in its warm embrace. We take an in-depth look at how Bradenton helped mold this particular group of 23. 

Top prospects for 2018: Want some lesser-known names to keep in mind for 2018? We go through 10 players who weren’t prominently featured in this cycle but who could make a major impact in Russia.

What’s MLS’ responsibility to the national team?: The balance between domestic leagues and national teams has always been tenuous, and MLS is wading into those waters currently. Does the league have a defined developmental duty to bring along young American players, or is the motto still Just Win Baby?

Fun with The 91st Minute: In addition to our great original content, the blog will continue to churn out unique stuff of its own. We’ll have World Cup predictions from the TDS staff, our group previews and more. It’ll be a action-packed week on TDS. Come enjoy it with us.

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