URTV24 SPORT- The United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) is entering a new era under the guidance of coach Mauricio Pochettino. With the October international window upon us, the roster selection offers a glimpse into Pochettino’s evolving vision for the FIFA World Cup. This selection feels more settled compared to previous squads, especially since the Concacaf Nations League team from last March.
Pochettino’s Philosophy: Perform or Else
Pochettino’s tenure hasn’t been without its challenges. Early on, player availability was affected by events like the Club World Cup, impacting the participation of key players such as Weston McKennie, Tim Weah, and Giovanni Reyna. Injuries to figures like Antonee Robinson, Sergiño Dest, and Folarin Balogun further complicated matters.
However, Pochettino is actively fostering a culture shift within the team. His core message is clear: performance is paramount. Past achievements and reputations hold no sway; only current form matters. "It’s exciting to meet the players and instill confidence, giving them the opportunity to fight for their place," Pochettino stated during a recent conference call. He emphasized that roster spots for the World Cup are not guaranteed based on past performances. This new approach aims to transform the team’s culture and mindset.
Players Embracing the Challenge
Several players have clearly embraced Pochettino’s philosophy. Tanner Tessmann of Lyon and Aidan Morris of Middlesbrough have been consistently delivering strong performances since the Ligue 1 season began. Their inclusion in the squad reflects their current form and their potential to contribute to the team’s success. "Tessmann and Morris are playing regularly each week. This continuity is crucial for their development and their ability to help us achieve our goals," Pochettino explained.
The return of Antonee Robinson from a knee injury is also a significant boost. Despite not yet reclaiming his starting position at Fulham, Pochettino believes Robinson has shown enough to warrant his return to the national team setup. Pochettino plans to closely manage Robinson’s situation in collaboration with his club to ensure he regains full confidence and regular playing time.
Demanding Excellence
However, not all players have met Pochettino’s high standards. When questioned about the absence of Yunus Musah of Atalanta and Joe Scally of Borussia Mönchengladbach, Pochettino responded assertively, emphasizing the need to respect the players currently selected. He avoided direct explanations, stating that he doesn’t feel obligated to justify his decisions to players, as their performance on the field should speak for itself.
A Departure from the Past
Pochettino’s approach marks a significant departure from his predecessor, Gregg Berhalter, who was known for his open communication style with players. While both approaches have their merits, the USMNT’s disappointing showing at the 2024 Copa América highlighted the need for a more disciplined and demanding environment. Tyler Adams, who is currently absent due to the impending birth of his child, has stressed the importance of the U.S. team being competitive.
Pochettino’s emphasis on competition and performance will be crucial in shaping the team’s dynamics and establishing a clear pecking order within the player pool. While Christian Pulisic’s place in the squad seems secure due to his exceptional form, the status of players like Weston McKennie remains uncertain.
The goalkeeper position is also hotly contested, with Matt Turner challenging Matthew Freese for the starting role. The forward positions are equally fluid, although Folarin Balogun appears to have gained an edge. The competition between Tim Weah and Alejandro Zendejas adds another layer of intrigue, with Weah potentially being deployed as a right wing-back.
The message is clear: the era of experimentation is over. The selection process has begun, and only those who consistently perform will secure their place in Pochettino’s World Cup plans.
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