Why USMNT fans should be excited about Mauricio Pochettino

It looks like the USMNT has found their new manager, and fans should be excited about Mauricio Pochettino's future with the Stars and Stripes.

The U.S. Men National Team have high expectations heading into the 2026 World Cup unfolding on their home soil. With players like Christian Pulisic, Antonee Robinson, and Folarin Balogun on the current roster, the Stars and Stripes have a wealth of talent that could deliver on the big stage...with the right man in charge.

Gregg Berhalter proved unfit for the task of leading the USMNT after Copa America 2024, and was fired back in July. After a lengthy search for a new head coach, U.S. Soccer reportedly hired Mauricio Pochettino, who most recently parted ways with Chelsea after the 2023/24 Premier League season.

Here's why the hire is a big win for the USMNT and their loyal, frustrated fans.

Why USMNT fans should be excited about Mauricio Pochettino

1. He's not Gregg Berhalter

Let's be honest, the USMNT was never going to make real strides under Gregg Berhalter. The manager brought stale tactics, uninspired passion, and plenty of off-field drama to the Stars and Stripes in his tenure.

Any hope that the 51-year-old could find true success at the helm of the United States was shattered after his side made a group stage exit at Copa America 2024 on home soil. His departure finally paved the way for a much-needed new head coach.

2. His resume speaks for itself

Mauricio Pochettino is one of the most qualified candidates U.S. Soccer could have hired. The 52-year-old has coached in three of Europe's top five leagues, managing Espanyol, Southampton, Tottenham, PSG, and most recently, Chelsea.

He has seen just about all there is to see, and although he has never coached an international side before, his club experience more than makes up for it.

3. His impressive tournament experience

Pochettino's trophy cabinet might not be overflowing with trophies, but he has managed to lead underdog teams to tournament finals that, frankly, they had no business being in.

Most notably, the former Tottenham manager led Spurs to the 2019 Champions League final, securing victories against Borussia Dortmund, Manchester City, and Ajax along the way.

Despite having a rather underwhelming season in charge of Chelsea last year, the manager still took the Blues to the EFL Cup final. He also won the French Cup (and Ligue 1) with PSG.

4. His player development

The USMNT is desperate for a coach that can develop young talent and get the most out of his players. Pochettino spent years and years with England's now all-time leading goalscorer, Harry Kane, as well as Son Heung-min, Kyle Walker, and more, on Tottenham alone.

The Stars and Stripes current roster is their most talented in a long time, but they have not had the right person at head coach to turn the up and coming players into stars. Now, Pochettino will get the chance to work with his magic the team and hopefully, take the players to new heights.

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