League: Ligue 1 Sport: Soccer Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Pochettino expresses support for Messi ahead of World Cup match

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 19, 2026, 3:26 AM

Last updated Jun 19, 2026

Pochettino expresses support for Messi ahead of World Cup match

Summary

United States coach Mauricio Pochettino spoke emotionally about Lionel Messi during a news conference on June 18, 2026, ahead of the World Cup match against Australia. Pochettino, who previously coached Messi at Paris Saint-Germain, conveyed his support amid Messi's family difficulties, as noted in a family statement regarding Messi's father's health. Pochettino affirmed his commitment to the U.S. team while expressing respect for Messi's illustrious career. The U.S. team, coming off a 4-1 victory against Paraguay, prepares for their upcoming match against Australia on June 19. The availability of Christian Pulisic remains uncertain, depending on his recovery from a knock sustained in the opening match.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Pochettino supports Messi amid family health issues.
•Pochettino previously coached Messi at PSG from 2021 to 2023.
•USA defeated Paraguay 4-1 in their World Cup opener.
•The U.S. faces Australia on June 19, 2026.
•Christian Pulisic's availability for the match is uncertain.

Latest Updates

3:26 AMYahoo Sports — US coach Pochettino share emotional words about Messi

What they're saying

"
United States coach Mauricio Pochettino used the news conference ahead of the World Cup match against Australia on Friday to share some emotional words about Argentina superstar Lionel Messi. "I want to send him all my support because he's going through a difficult family situation," Pochettino said on Thursday.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Paris Saint-Germain Ligue 1 Soccer