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Last April, now 15-year-old Freddy Adu made his debut with great fanfare and huge media interest in the "D.C. United" club in the MLS (Major League Soccer) championship in the USA. Football pundits in the USA and other countries began calling him the "savior of American football" and the "new Pele" back then. In this article, we will focus on the first season of this young American football star.
Potential
Throughout his nine-year history, the MLS had never seen such huge media coverage as when Freddy Adu, born in Ghana, played his first season of professional football. Wherever Adu played, crowds of fans gathered in the stadiums. When "D.C. United" played away games, there were significantly more fans in attendance than the league average of around 16-17 thousand over the past two seasons. Adu performed well on the field - not missing a single match, whether in the starting lineup or as a substitute, the young American scored four goals and provided one assist. As expected, Adu's media attention slightly decreased because he did not become an overnight sensation and "D.C. United" limited his playing time.
Unprecedented and unheard-of media coverage seemed to benefit Adu's talent. While his initial performances and tricks seemed to focus on dealing with tough defenders and making skillful breakthroughs, later games showed that he had improved and become a great player. A player who could amaze and dazzle with his individual skills, but at the same time connect with his teammates.
The Burden of Expectations
At the beginning of the season, the most debated topic was not about who would win the championship, but what to expect from Adu. Tickets for "D.C. United's" pre-season matches sold very easily - it seemed like everyone wanted to catch a glimpse of the young star. In addition to numerous media interviews, including appearances on several talk shows on American television, Adu also attracted the attention of the "Nike" company, signing a $1 million contract. Even before Adu stepped into professional football, the marketing campaign continued - he signed with "Pepsi". While promoting the "Pepsi Sierra Mist" brand, Adu had to advertise with his idol Pele.
Truth be told, all the attention turned into expectations and hopes that could possibly never be met. It seems that the best young players in the USA have a double responsibility - not only to improve and become great players, but also to help raise the profile of football - from a "kid's game" to a universally recognized sport. This was something that the media had hindered players with in the past, including Landon Donovan. Now it seems like Adu's turn has come.
Like Him
Meanwhile, Freddy didn't complain much about being thrust into the limelight. It would have been natural if it had affected him, but he took it all in stride. His family really helped him. Just like his head coach. Peter Nowak, whose story is similar to Adu's, just not as commercialized. At 15, Nowak joined a team in Poland's second division, later playing in Turkey, Switzerland, Germany, and finally the USA. Although they were never superstars, he was an excellent experienced midfielder, very devoted to his profession. The former Polish national team player had a good first season as coach of "D.C. United," but, like Adu, had a dual role. "D.C. United" had to perform well, and Nowak had to take care of Adu and ensure he continued to improve as a player.
In doing so, Nowak behaves similarly to David Moyes. Just as this coach protected , Nowak also oversees Adu. While normally soft and nonchalant American fans protested and demanded loudly that the coach allow Adu to play as soon as possible, Nowak was firm and chose the moment himself. Nowak's experience undoubtedly helped him. His 22 years of playing experience gave him skills to work with, as he calls it, a "project." Nowak paid extraordinary attention to Adu, but he also treated him like any other team member.
The Future
If he avoids serious injuries, Adu will surely continue to improve. Whether he will fulfill the immense expectations placed on him, only time will tell. It may take a season or two before this star becomes a true MLS star, but if he continues to develop his game, he will reach that stage. European giants were interested in this young star even before Adu joined "D.C. United." It is rumored that when Adu was just 11, Milan offered him a $750,000 contract! Adu is already mentioned as a possible candidate for the 2006 US national team at the World Cup. However, whether this will happen is unclear, as the current US coach, Bruce Arena, does not spare criticism for this young talent.
When this player touches the ball on the field, everyone holds their breath, expecting something impressive and unique to happen. The hype surrounding this player is immense. He is truly a player that this country needs. A country where football is like a religion. However, unfortunately, it's only American football. Adu - the "savior"? Adu - "Pele"? Probably not. He alone will certainly not elevate soccer's popularity in America. And he surely won't become Pele. But he can still become one of the greatest American footballers of all time. If he so desires.
