Dempsey hits back at Marsch over anthem comments

United States men's national team legend Clint Dempsey has fired back at former assistant coach Jesse Marsch after Marsch suggested that some American players needed encouragement to sing the national anthem before matches.

Dempsey, speaking to media, said Marsch should "stay in his lane" and questioned the former Leeds United manager's comments. Marsch had made the remarks earlier this week while discussing the mentality of U.S. players.

The exchange highlights a split in opinions about the approach to national pride and team culture within the USMNT setup. Dempsey, who earned 141 caps for the United States, is known for his outspoken views on the team's identity.

Marsch, who served as an assistant under Gregg Berhalter, has been out of management since leaving Leeds in early 2023. Neither party has commented further on the matter.