• by Juan Martinez, writing from San Francisco
• Twitter: @scripts_n_scars

Recently, I found myself entangled in articles and promotional videos about the revival of the New York Cosmos in American soccer. Something in particular caught my attention when watching the footage of Pele's, Eric Cantona's, and Cobi Jones' trip to the Asias. They had what appeared to be a Q&A session with audience members looking at finding out more about the Cosmos intentions in returning. In response to a question, Eric Cantona put it simply: “...the most important thing is how we encourage young players, on the pitch, to become a better human being.” This quote was immediately followed by Cobi Jones stating “...you know, it's a very important part of our club and organization to remember the past, know what we're doing in the present, and to build things into the future.” I would repeat what Pele said in response to a question, but I am not worthy.

What caught my attention about such uncomplicated statements, you ask? The fact that they didn't mention competition. They didn't mention winning. They didn't mention losing. I can't even tell you if it was on their minds at that moment. My guess is no, it wasn't. But isn't that what soccer's about? Winning? Losing? Team rivalries? Yes, but not on that day at that moment. I feel there is a message here that--including the “Big Three” of soccer--is above us all. This message is powerful, yet graceful at the same time. I haven't quite put my finger on it, but if I were to try and sum it up it would be this: Someone at the Cosmos has their eyes set on a big return to the MLS, and they are trying to set the stage.

I believe the Cosmos are paving their own way back into the history books. A new legacy, if you will. This includes building a team from the ground up; building a coaching staff; building another legacy from the ground up. Yes, the Cosmos were like a U.S. Version of los Galacticos in the '70s and '80s, but they are entering an entirely different 'ball game' with the MLS. They must compete against teams such as Real Salt Lake, LA Galaxy, Chicago Fire, Houston Dynamo, Columbus Crew, and DC United; teams who have mostly dominated since 1996. Their work is definitely cut out for them.

I believe there's a simple method to the madness behind bringing such big names as Pele, Cantona, and Jones to the organization, and that is to create the mood in American soccer. The New York Red Bulls made significant moves for the sport in the U.S. with Thierry Henry and Rafa Marquez, two guys who have just as significant roles in international soccer. (Making sense now?) The Chicago Fire signed Cuahtemoc Blanco from Club America a few years back and he did his job: helped form a playoff contending team. And, of course, the obvious international signing: David Beckham.

Again, I believe it's about building the sport's reputation in the states for the Cosmos as an indirect way of making the bed they will lay in. The stage is being set. I'm no mathematician—to be honest, I'm just a little lazy—but if you were to look back at soccer's popularity in the US since the inception of MLS, and the impact international stars have had on growth, I assure you the numbers are impressive. Impressive enough for the Cosmos? I think not. They need time, but with that time they will make some major moves to ensure that they make a grand entrance back into soccer. I can't wait.

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