Where To For Freddy Adu?

Recently, U.S. head coach Bob Bradley has come under criticism for his tactics and lineups. Many, including myself, implore Bradley put in Freddy Adu.

However, Bradley has a good argument for this: Adu's not getting any playing time. It could be argued that neither are Jozy Altidore or DaMarcus Beasley and they're still in the starting lineup, but that story is for another day.

The fact is, Bradley does have a point. Adu is not getting any playing time. Even players on the national team, like Landon Donovan, suggest to Adu to find a club where he can play more often. Let's take a look at some of the choices that Adu does have.

Benfica/MLS

Benfica recently named a new head coach, Jorge Jesus. One option is that Adu could stay at Benfica and see if Jorge Jesus likes him. If the head coach does like him, then he'll get more playing time.

However, if Adu does not find favor with Jesus, then during the winter transfer market, move to the MLS. Adu can't afford more time on the bench with the World Cup coming up, and MLS teams will definitely chase after the youngest player to play and score in their league.

Other European Leagues

Obviously, there are many European football leagues, and there are leagues where Americans have done well in the past and are currently doing well in, such as the German Bundesliga, the Belgian First Division, and French Ligue 1.

Recent rumours have also suggested that Adu might go to Spain because he likes their playing style. The problem with this idea is that if Adu goes to a big team, he'll probably get more time on the bench.

The best idea is to go to a weaker team in one of the aforementioned leagues or even go to a second division club in Germany or Spain that will promise him playing time. The USA hasn't usually had a problem with calling up players in European second division clubs as long as they're getting quality playing time.

Hurry Back to MLS

By hurry back to the MLS, I mean hurry back as soon as he's done with national team duties. This will give him optimal playing time and experience. And with the World Cup  less than a year away, he'll need all the time on the pitch as possible. 

My suggestion is to look for a European team which will give him playing time, or stay with Benfica if promised time on the pitch. If not promised playing time, then hurry back to the MLS.

Freddy Adu is the only American that possesses certain qualities such as creativity, and the USA needs those qualities. Adu won't play for the USA unless he plays for his club, and if he returns to the MLS, then not only will he get to start for his club, but also for his country.