Jeff Carlyle
HARTFORD, Connecticut – US men’s national team coach Mauricio Pochettino emphasized the significance of focusing on the process behind selecting the roster for the Concacaf Gold Cup, creating an atmosphere where players can “earn their spots” ahead of the World Cup.
As he prepares for the Gold Cup, which includes a friendly against Turkey on Saturday, Pochettino is facing challenges due to the unavailability of several key players.
Notable absences include AC Milan forward Christian Pulisic (due to fatigue), Fulham’s Antony Robinson (knee surgery), PSV Eindhoven’s Sergiño Dest (recovering from ACL surgery), and Juventus players Weston McKennie and Tim Weah (committed to the Club World Cup).
Amid these injuries, expectations have altered significantly as the team gears up for the World Cup at home next year. Pochettino is now digging deeper into the USMNT talent pool, with the 26-player Gold Cup roster featuring seven newcomers and fewer than five players with international experience.
“We need to adapt to this situation and not dwell on it,” Pochettino said to reporters on Friday. “Our focus is on creating a supportive environment for players as they prepare for the World Cup.”
“Of course, while there may be opportunities here, the reality is that we must embrace it.”
When questioned about whether he believed the current roster could secure the Gold Cup victory, Pochettino refrained from giving a direct answer, instead highlighting the chance for players to shine.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity for us to work through challenges. It can be tough to train and compete in just a few days,” he remarked. “We have a month together now, and we’ll see how it unfolds.”
“Creating opportunities for players is crucial, and it’s about believing in our squad and striving to compete effectively.”
Pochettino subtly criticized the USMNT for the attitudes exhibited in past gatherings. Captain Tyler Adams shared that Pochettino has set clear expectations for the group.
“We need to clarify our mindset, and Pochettino has made that clear since day one. We should enjoy our time on the field, improve daily, and learn to navigate challenges,” Adams emphasized.
“We’re traveling a lot, playing internationally, yet we’re eager to be home and reconnect with our families. However, finding the right balance is essential.”
“He discusses balance frequently, expressing that we need to excel as professionals, which is crucial.”
Fan Take: This news is pivotal for soccer fans as it showcases Pochettino’s commitment to building a resilient team, even in the face of adversity. The upcoming Gold Cup could reveal emerging talent that might shape the future of US soccer, making it an essential tournament to watch.
