Christian Pulisic expresses hope for a stronger USMNT under Mauricio Pochettino, as the team looks ahead to the 2026 World Cup. Christian Pulisic is optimistic that new head
Christian Pulisic expresses hope for a stronger USMNT under Mauricio Pochettino, as the team looks ahead to the 2026 World Cup.
Christian Pulisic is optimistic that new head coach Mauricio Pochettino can bring the mentality and risk-taking edge needed to elevate the US Men’s National Team (USMNT) following a 1-1 draw against New Zealand in Cincinnati. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, Pulisic believes Pochettino’s leadership will be crucial in transforming the team’s culture and performance after a difficult period, including a disappointing Copa America exit that led to the dismissal of former coach Gregg Berhalter. Pochettino’s appointment marks a new chapter for the USMNT as they prepare for their next challenge.
Christian Pulisic’s goal was canceled out by Ben Waine’s late equalizer in a 1-1 draw in Cincinnati, but the focus quickly shifted to the future, with Pulisic expressing hope that incoming coach Mauricio Pochettino can transform the US Men’s National Team. Speaking after the match, Pulisic emphasized the need for a fierce mentality and risk-taking approach to elevate the team to the highest level ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the US, Mexico, and Canada.
Pochettino, the former manager of Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, and Paris Saint-Germain, was confirmed as the new head coach following the sacking of Gregg Berhalter in July after a disappointing Copa America exit on home soil. The US team has been without a permanent coach since then, and Pulisic acknowledged the need for change within the squad.
“It’s time to turn the page. We really have to pick it up a level,” Pulisic said on Tuesday. “Hopefully, Pochettino brings a culture that is willing to fight, take risks, and win. We have the quality, but the mentality needs to change.”
Pochettino echoed Pulisic’s sentiments, noting that his decision to take charge of the US team was not just about football, but about being part of the country’s broader journey in the sport. His first test will come in October when the US plays friendlies against Panama and Mexico as they begin preparations for the 2026 World Cup.
Pochettino is expected to arrive in New York City on Wednesday and will be officially introduced to the media by the end of the week. The Argentine manager will then begin working on a comprehensive six-week plan with U.S. Soccer. His agenda includes closely monitoring domestic and international players ahead of friendlies against Panama in Austin and a highly anticipated match against Mexico in Guadalajara on October 15. With Pochettino at the helm, the USMNT looks to rebuild and prepare for the challenges of the upcoming World Cup.
