As the countdown to the 2026 World Cup kicks off, Mauricio Pochettino is stepping into a pivotal role with the U.S. men’s national soccer team. Over the next 20 months, this legendary Argentine coach will have the critical task of reshaping a team that’s been struggling and lost its way recently. With a robust coaching background at clubs like Tottenham Hotspur, Paris Saint-Germain, and Chelsea, Pochettino now faces a different kind of challenge: leading a national team in a World Cup that will be held on home soil.
At first glance, 20 months seems like a generous amount of time for any coach to build a winning team. And for Pochettino, who’s known for his strategic brilliance and meticulous preparation, it might appear as an ample runway to execute his plans. However, stepping away from the high-octane, fast-paced world of club soccer into the international arena presents its own unique set of challenges. The expectations are sky-high, and the preparation time is limited to just eight FIFA international windows, during which he can conduct camps, friendlies, and regional competitions.
This is a massive shift for Pochettino. In club football, the pace is relentless—matches come thick and fast, and the offseasons seem to pass in the blink of an eye. But now, he’s tasked with preparing a U.S. squad that has been struggling, and there’s a palpable sense of urgency to get things right before the World Cup kicks off in 2026.
Exciting Times Ahead
Pochettino’s journey with the U.S. team starts in about four weeks, with friendlies against Panama in Austin and Mexico in Guadalajara on the horizon. This is a crucial period that will set the tone for the team's preparations. Star forward Christian Pulisic is already feeling the buzz. "It can definitely give a jolt of energy at the beginning," he mentioned. The players know they need to bring their A-game to impress Pochettino and secure their spots in the squad.
Pochettino is aware of the steep climb ahead. “It’s going to be a massive challenge,” he admitted. Ideally, a coach would have more time to work with a team that's still finding its footing. Unlike teams with a rich history like Argentina or France, the U.S. program is starting anew under Pochettino’s leadership. After a disappointing summer that saw the U.S. crash out of Copa América in the group stage and underwhelming performances against Canada and New Zealand, Pochettino’s role becomes even more critical.
But don’t count him out. Pochettino is optimistic about turning things around. “We have very talented players,” he said. “Of course, the confidence was low after the latest set of results. But we are going to work to create the right pattern, recover the confidence, and start to perform together.”
Building from the Ground Up
Pochettino’s work will be rooted in creating a strong team dynamic and restoring confidence. Before he officially gathers the squad, he’ll be operating from his base in Barcelona. From there, he plans to visit U.S. players at their clubs around the world and build strong relationships with their respective teams. This groundwork is crucial, as it will help him understand the players’ strengths, weaknesses, and how best to integrate them into his tactical vision.
He’s also set to begin house-hunting in greater Atlanta, where the new national training center is set to open in 2026. This move symbolizes his commitment to the role and his intention to be closely involved in the U.S. soccer scene.
A High-Stakes Investment
The U.S. Soccer Federation (USSF) is banking heavily on Pochettino. His hiring marks a significant investment, reflecting the federation’s determination to make a splash on the international stage. Pochettino’s contract is expected to be the largest in USSF history, surpassing even the salary of previous coaches. Last year, the USSF had to collaborate with hedge-fund billionaire Kenneth C. Griffin to secure Pochettino’s services, demonstrating the level of commitment and financial effort involved in this hire.
USSF President Cindy Parlow Cone revealed that without the external funding, securing Pochettino wouldn’t have been feasible. “The Pochettino deal absolutely doesn’t happen without that help,” she said. Emma Hayes, the coach of the U.S. women’s national team and a former colleague of Pochettino’s at Chelsea, played a crucial role in the recruitment process. Her insider knowledge and friendship with Pochettino helped reassure him about the USSF’s commitment and transparency.
Looking Ahead
Pochettino’s contract will run through the World Cup, though he’s expressed a desire to leave a lasting impact on the program. USSF CEO JT Batson highlighted that while Pochettino is eager to build for the future, the immediate goal is clear: “We’ve got to perform in the World Cup.”
The U.S. players are already excited about the new leadership. Forward Ricardo Pepi is optimistic, stating, “He’s going to bring a lot to our group. It’s been a tough one, but we’re ready to turn it around and ready to get to work.”
Pochettino’s arrival is a beacon of hope for U.S. soccer fans. The road to the World Cup is fraught with challenges, but with a coach of Pochettino’s caliber at the helm, there’s renewed hope that the team will rise to the occasion and make a significant impact on home soil in 2026.
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