AUSTIN, Texas — New USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino must balance immediate success with long-term goals as he prepares for his debut match against Panama on Saturday. Winning this game is crucial not only for team morale but also for setting the tone for his tenure.
Pochettino’s focus during his first international training camp has been on rebuilding the USMNT’s confidence and enhancing their intensity. A victory against Los Canaleros, followed by a match against fierce rivals Mexico on Tuesday in Guadalajara, would significantly contribute to these objectives.
However, Pochettino, who has a history of success with clubs like Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, and Tottenham, understands the importance of maintaining a broader perspective. The 52-year-old Argentine has proven to be highly competitive, yet he recognizes that sustainable growth is essential for the team’s future.
While he prefers his teams to build attacks from the back, Pochettino is pragmatic. “Sometimes we can play a long pass,” he stated. “Sometimes, we need to find a different way.” This flexibility could be vital in adapting to various match situations.
When selecting his initial lineups, Pochettino will consider numerous factors but will not risk players who are not fully fit. “We are not going to take risks with our players,” he emphasized, highlighting his commitment to player welfare.
The coach also addressed the situation of players from high-profile clubs who may not regularly see game time. Key figures like Matt Turner from Crystal Palace, Yunus Musah of AC Milan, and Juventus’ Tim Weah may not always play 90 minutes, raising questions about their selection for the national team.
Pochettino reassured that a lack of club playing time does not automatically disqualify players from USMNT consideration. “What I expect from the players that are not playing normally on big clubs is to work really hard during the week,” he explained. He encourages them to prove their readiness for national duty.
He also suggested that players might consider moving to different clubs if they want more playing time, stating, “Maybe it’s less exciting, but I’m going to play and show that I deserve to go and to be in the national team.”
As the players engage in Pochettino’s intensive training sessions, they are eager to showcase their skills. “Everyone wants to show what they’ve got,” Musah remarked, highlighting the positive atmosphere leading up to these October friendlies.
Outside of tactical discussions, Pochettino is also building rapport with his players. Christian Pulisic noted, “He cares about the individual players,” emphasizing that Pochettino values their well-being alongside their competitive spirit.
The ultimate goal for the USMNT is the 2026 World Cup, which the U.S. will co-host with Canada and Mexico. Every decision made now is aimed at ensuring the team is competitive when the time comes.
Pochettino acknowledged the responsibility he carries, stating, “Together, we need to build that confidence and trust that we can arrive in two years and be really competitive.” The journey towards that goal begins on Saturday, marking a pivotal moment for the USMNT.
