Mauricio Pochettino plots USMNT's 'fresh start' as focus shifts to 2030 World Cup
Yahoo Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- Mauricio Pochettino plans to select a balanced mix of young and experienced players for the U.S. national team's upcoming four-match home slate, focusing on building toward the 2030 World Cup.
- The squad of about 26 players will be announced on Sept. 17 for friendlies against Peru, Chile, Mexico, and Canada between late September and early October.
- Pochettino emphasized a "new start" with fresh principles and a long-term project, aiming to develop young talent carefully while maintaining competitiveness in the present.
- The 2028 Olympics is a key part of the plan, with collaboration between Pochettino and U.S. Olympic coach Steve Cherundolo to provide young players with senior-level experience.
- Pochettino is focused on changing the team culture to foster professionalism and competitiveness, addressing past challenges such as player requests to skip tournaments and emphasizing alignment across players, coaches, and clubs.
