AUSTIN, Texas — Mauricio Pochettino’s subtle tweaks make a big difference in his USMNT debut, as he emphasizes a player-first approach. Since taking the helm of the U.S. men’s national soccer team, Pochettino has consistently highlighted his primary goal: nurturing the players’ potential.
Winning is undoubtedly a part of his mission, and he celebrated a successful start on Saturday, where the Americans ended a four-match winless streak with a 2-0 victory over Panama in a friendly match.
“We are here,” Pochettino reiterated after the match, “to help the players grow.”
This focus on player development aligns with the expectations set for him: to captivate the nation with a compelling performance at the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted in the United States.
Panama’s coach Thomas Christiansen noted, “I didn’t feel [there were] too many changes” from previous U.S. squads, suggesting that Pochettino will need time to implement his vision.
Pochettino believes the USMNT possesses the talent necessary for a successful World Cup run, but to achieve this, players must cultivate unwavering self-belief. His role is to instill that confidence, and Saturday’s victory indicates progress in that direction.
Consider the pivotal goal scored by Yunus Musah against Los Canaleros early in the second half.
Musah, a 21-year-old midfielder, has shown immense promise since joining the national team four years ago, even starting at the 2022 World Cup as a teenager. However, he has faced challenges with his club, AC Milan, leading to some uncertainty in his performance.
Pochettino’s approach proved effective.
“I think that was a good decision,” he remarked. “It’s fantastic for him, fantastic for the team, and now maybe he will perform and act with newfound confidence.”
This is just one of the many adjustments Pochettino has introduced during his inaugural training camp with the USMNT.
“Different ideas, different tactics, different formations, and a blend of cultures,” said goalkeeper Matt Turner, who also received encouragement from Pochettino and later showcased his skills by making two crucial saves to maintain the clean sheet.
“We have a lot of experienced players,” Turner noted. “These are guys who have been in this position before.”
Unlike club coaches, international managers cannot easily adjust their rosters through transfers. The core group remains largely unchanged from the previous regime under Gregg Berhalter. However, Pochettino’s proven ability to develop talent was a key factor in his hiring.
His coaching acumen was evident in the team’s first outing, and the victory was certainly significant.
“It’s been a while since we’ve won a game and kept a clean sheet, so it’s great to start this new chapter with a win,” Turner reflected. “Winning is something you learn.”
“The gap between national teams is closing,” Turner added. “More players are competing at high levels globally, making the margins for victory in tournaments slimmer. We must focus on every detail.”
With one match under Pochettino’s belt, the outlook appears promising.
