In an exclusive interview with ussoccer.com ahead of his introductory press conference on Friday morning (11 a.m. ET; U.S. Soccer YouTube), new U.S. Men’s National Team manager Mauricio Pochettino spoke on a number of topics related to his appointment, including the relationship he hopes to have with fans as he begins this next challenge.
“Soccer without fans is impossible,” he said. “We need the fans. I think the fans here are really excited about the team. We come here to try to be part of this family, with the possibility that they enjoy in every single game that they came to the to the stadium and create an unbelievable atmosphere. We need that, and the players need to feel that.”
Having made stops in the United States with his previous clubs - including a five-match preseason trip with Chelsea in July and August of last year - Pochettino has witnessed this country’s passion for soccer firsthand. Last Fall, Pochettino’s Chelsea side played in front of sellout or near-sellout crowds in North Carolina, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Landover, and Chicago.
“(It) is amazing in the way that they are growing,” he said. “I can see the difference from when we were here for tours and to compete here. The evolution is massive. I think it's fantastic.”
While he prepares for the MNT’s upcoming October match window in the short term, Pochettino is undoubtedly looking ahead to the 2026 FIFA World Cup that will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. With the continent set to host the sport’s biggest event for the first time since 1994, Pochettino is aware of what a strong showing can do for the continued growth of soccer in the region.
“I see the potential is there,” he said. “The dream to be part of this project, with the World Cup ahead in two years with the possibility to win, because the USA is a country that always the dream is to win…It makes us so, so excited to join the national team.”
Pochettino’s first opportunity to step on the field as the MNT head coach will be on Oct. 12, when the team faces Panama in an international friendly at Q2 Stadium in Austin, Tx. (9 p.m. ET; TNT, Telemundo, Universo, Max, Peacock, Fútbol de Primera Radio; TICKETS). That match is followed by a first crack at regional rivals Mexico on the road in a friendly at Guadalajara’s Estadio Akron (10:30 p.m. ET; TNT, Max, Fútbol de Primera Radio).
While he looks to make a strong first impression next month, he’s setting the bar high for his tenure at the helm.
“For sure, all together, we can create something important, with the possibility to compete and dream to win a massive competition like the World Cup.”
