No Mauricio Pochettino yet, but USMNT still hopes for a ‘new coach bump’ this month. Fans of the U.S. men’s national team are not the only ones eagerly awaiting the official announcement of Mauricio Pochettino as the new head coach.
During a Zoom meeting on Tuesday from Kansas City, where the Americans are set to face Canada in a friendly match, veteran defender Tim Ream expressed, “We know as much as everybody else.” This comment reflects the uncertainty surrounding the coaching situation, as players seek clarity on their leadership ahead of critical matches.
Ream shared that, “We were updated a few weeks ago that the search was moving in a positive direction.” He emphasized that while they are kept informed, no final decisions have been communicated yet. This ongoing ambiguity has left USMNT fans feeling anxious, a sentiment that is perfectly reasonable given the circumstances.
Despite the unsigned deal for the former Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, and Tottenham Hotspur manager, sources have indicated that progress is being made. The expectation is that Pochettino’s appointment could happen soon, although it remains uncertain whether it will be finalized before the upcoming matches against Canada and New Zealand.
The 24 players currently training under interim coach Mikey Varas are aware of the stakes. Following a disappointing group stage exit at the Copa América in July, the team has a lot to prove. Ream noted that the squad is eager to make a strong impression in these September matches, viewing them as an opportunity to showcase their abilities.
Forward Folarin Balogun echoed this sentiment, stating, “When we wear this jersey, it’s about putting on a show for our fans and giving it a hundred percent.” The players are committed to treating these games with the seriousness they deserve, aiming to remind everyone of their potential.
What remains to be seen is how the team will evolve under Pochettino’s guidance. Even in his absence, the players are likely to experience the typical “new coach bump,” a phenomenon known for energizing teams after a coaching change. Ream, who has played under multiple coaches throughout his career, understands this dynamic well.
Ream remarked, “I think I’ve had 10 or 11 different managers over the course of just my club career.” His recent move from Premier League Fulham to Charlotte FC in MLS adds to his diverse coaching experiences.
The anticipation surrounding Pochettino’s eventual introduction will only heighten. Having faced his teams in England, Ream recognizes the tactical strength and organization that Pochettino brings to the table, which could significantly benefit the U.S. team as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup.
“He’s a high-quality, high-level manager,” Ream stated. “They were teams that were really well organized and strong in the attacking sense, always difficult to play against.” With this level of expertise, there is hope that the USMNT can turn a new page and achieve greater success on the international stage.
With any luck, the team will soon be united under Pochettino’s leadership, ready to make their mark.
