Mauricio Pochettino Introduced as USMNT Coach

Mauricio Pochettino has officially taken over as the head coach of the U.S. men's national soccer team, emphasizing the need for his players to draw inspiration from the success of the U.S. women's national team, which boasts four World Cup titles and five Olympic gold medals. At his introductory press conference, Pochettino declared, "We are here because we want to win," and stressed the importance of believing in their potential to win the World Cup. The Argentine coach, who has never managed a national team before, replaces Gregg Berhalter and aims to uplift a team that hasn't reached the World Cup quarterfinals since 2002. U.S. Soccer Federation President Cindy Parlow Cone remarked on the high expectations for Pochettino, noting that Emma Hayes, the U.S. women's coach, had rapid success leading her team to an Olympic gold medal. Pochettino's appointment marks a significant moment in U.S. soccer as he seeks to change the trajectory of the men's team ahead of the 2026 World Cup.