Mauricio Pochettino calls for shift in United States national team mindset

U.S. men’s national team head coach Mauricio Pochettino stated Monday that he intends to change the habits and professional standards of the roster. Addressing reporters in an online session, Pochettino appeared to reference Christian Pulisic’s decision to opt out of the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup to rest. The coach criticized the rationale that players must prioritize holidays to remain fresh for the World Cup, calling such attitudes inappropriate. Pochettino emphasized that his second term will focus on new principles and the expectation that players consistently compete at the highest level. He plans to announce his roster on September 17 for upcoming friendlies against Peru, Chile, Mexico, and Canada. The team faces competitive CONCACAF Nations League quarterfinals in November.

• 5:18 PMYahoo Sports — Pocchetino says US mindset must change, appearing to cite Pulisic absence from 2025 Gold Cup