Pochettino Urges MLS Players To Step Up Ahead USMNT Camp

Mauricio Pochettino, the new head coach of the U.S. men’s national soccer team (USMNT), is gearing up for the January camp with a focus on evaluating US-based players ahead of the CONCACAF Nations League finals in March. With a squad primarily made up of MLS players, Pochettino emphasized the importance of these friendlies against Venezuela and Costa Rica as an opportunity for players to showcase their skills and compete for national team positions. He acknowledged the challenges of assembling a competitive team outside of FIFA international windows, which traditionally limits the roster to domestic talent. Pochettino also believes there are many capable players in the MLS who can compete at the international level, countering the notion that success requires playing abroad. Additionally, he humorously addressed the hypothetical recruitment of Lionel Messi's sons to the USMNT, suggesting that their Argentine heritage makes such a scenario unlikely. Overall, Pochettino aims to instill confidence and create a competitive environment within the national team framework.