Alexi Lalas, a former United States men’s national team midfielder turned Fox Sports analyst, has made a significant impact in American soccer television with his bold and direct opinions. With almost a century of caps for his country and experience playing in Italy’s Serie A and Major League Soccer, Lalas is a respected figure in the soccer world. He was even invited to a seminar alongside prominent figures in the sport by FIFA, showcasing his influencer status. On television, Lalas is known for his outspoken commentary, recently comparing the England national team to the Dallas Cowboys.
In a recent interview, Lalas discusses how he sees his role as a studio analyst on TV, emphasizing the importance of entertaining viewers while providing insightful analysis. His colleague and friend, Stu Holden, attests to Lalas’s authenticity both on and off the camera, highlighting the importance of being interesting and bold in the sports broadcasting industry. Lalas and Holden both put in diligent efforts to meet with coaches, players, or front-office staff before matches to provide viewers with a deeper understanding of the game.
Despite being more removed from today’s modern locker room, Lalas and Holden believe their age allows them to offer more critical analyses of the game. Lalas is unapologetic about his opinions, stating that he values honesty and authenticity above all else. He draws inspiration from various forms of media when it comes to his on-screen character, incorporating elements of shock jock, political commentary, and late-night television hosting.
Like his colleague Gary Lineker, Lalas also has a love-hate relationship with social media, which he describes as both addictive and ego-boosting. He acknowledges the role of social media in shaping public opinion but remains committed to being honest and engaging even if it means sparking controversy. Lalas’s primary focus is on being true to himself, whether it’s in his sports commentary or personal beliefs, and he values genuine interactions with people over online engagements.
As the USMNT competes in the Copa America, Lalas and Holden have high expectations for the team’s performance under coach Gregg Berhalter. They emphasize the importance of progressing past the group stage and making a statement in the tournament. Both analysts highlight the need for the players to take responsibility for their performance on the field, urging them to step up and deliver results. Ultimately, Lalas and Holden are focused on providing insightful and entertaining analysis for viewers while encouraging the USMNT to reach new heights in international soccer competition.
