Mauricio Pochettino, the newly appointed head coach of the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT), is turning heads and sparking excitement as the nation prepares for the World Cup set to be hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada in 2026. Appointed to the role back in August 2024, Pochettino is now facing the enormous responsibility of leading the team during this pivotal moment for American soccer.
Having spent much of his managerial career immersed in the lush traditions of English football, Pochettino now finds himself adapting to the sports culture of America—a reality filled with both challenges and opportunities. With the World Cup being touted as the biggest sporting event for the nation since it last hosted the tournament in 1994, Pochettino acknowledges the tremendous pressure he faces, particularly from U.S. President Donald Trump.
During a conversation between Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, Pochettino overheard Trump pose the question, "Can we win the World Cup?" The expected affirmative answer from Infantino, who said "yes," left Pochettino feeling disappointed. He remarked, "He should say, 'You need to ask your great coach, Pochettino, because for sure, he can give a ..." (Expressing his belief in his ability to lead). This humorous yet pointed comment reflects both the pride and the pressure he feels as he enters this new chapter of his career.
It’s not just the responsibility of leading the national team, but also the cultural challenges. "The USA has always been a mystery for me," Pochettino said. His previous experiences with soccer, primarily rooted deeply within European cultures, exemplify the unknowns he is now set to navigate. With major structural changes on the horizon for U.S. soccer, including the opening of the new national training center in Atlanta, Pochettino envisions a future where American soccer can thrive.
Looking at the 2026 World Cup from the vantage point of immense potential, he believes, "We still need more [development]. I think we can dominate soccer, football, maybe in 10 or 15 years… Maybe less, five, seven. The potential is massive." Pochettino’s confidence stems from the blend of talent within the current squad—young players with burgeoning skills and seasoned veterans who collectively could make waves on the international stage.
His comments about the growing popularity and infrastructure of soccer resonate with soccer fans and stakeholders across the country, as they anticipate the upcoming CONCACAF Nations League semi-final against Panama on March 20, 2025. Pochettino has previously indicated, “This World Cup is going to be the catalyst for the development of football here, just like it was back in ’94.”
Pochettino’s appointment seems like the right move at the right time for U.S. soccer. U.S. soccer officials have voiced excitement, noting how they managed to secure such high-profile talent who has garnered respect around the globe. The timing of his hiring over Thomas Tuchel, who stepped up to lead England, speaks volumes about the growing importance of soccer as Pochettino adds his flair to the American stage.
Despite the challenges of being away from Europe and adapting his management style to accommodate the national team’s unique structure, Pochettino is also clear about his aspirations. He openly reflected on his duties with the USMNT, stating, “We are ready to deliver,” reinforcing his commitment to embracing the expectations thrust upon him as the host nation for the World Cup.
"The mentality here is all about winning. It’s going to be pressure but it’s also welcome. We will feel the adrenaline we need to feel," he added. The pressures of success are compounded by the nation’s broader cultural acceptance of failure; Americans want results because the competition here involves high stakes.
Pochettino also notes his previous successes, explaining how he led Chelsea to find stability and finish within European qualification just after his appointment at Chelsea. He highlighted, “We can be proud of the way we finished” and showcased the way forward from adversity was pivotal to his current outlook on U.S. soccer. He has reflected on his time at Tottenham, admitting, “I made mistakes, you know? But the good thing is, when you are clever, you learn from your mistakes.”
His connection to England remains strong. "England is like my home now,” he states candidly as British mainstream sports media spotlight his prospects. Having previously felt connected to the English football pantheon, he shares, “I would like one day to come back [to Tottenham]… it’s always going to be a special club for me.” Yet, for now, his focus is squarely on representing American soccer and delivering success at the World Cup.
The challenge of leading the U.S. Men’s National Team is layered—a blend of intense competition, pressure from the trappings of celebrity perched on the edge of soccer success, and the rapid evolution of soccer as the epicenter of the sports conversation. For Mauricio Pochettino, the road to the World Cup is not merely about winning; it's about laying the groundwork for future triumphs by generating the enthusiasm and structures necessary to support soccer long-term across America.
