USMNT’s Mauricio Pochettino says nation lacks ‘emotional relationship’ with soccer
Mauricio Pochettino, head coach of the US men's national team, said the United States lacks a deep 'emotional relationship' with soccer compared to sports like basketball and American football. He emphasized the need for more accessible public spaces for children to play soccer informally, citing his own early experiences in Argentina. Despite this, Pochettino expressed optimism about the US team's World Cup prospects, stating that 'all is possible in football.'
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Mauricio Pochettino will lead the US men’s national team at this summer’s World Cup. Photograph: George Walker IV/APView image in fullscreenMauricio Pochettino will lead the US men’s national team at this summer’s World Cup. Photograph: George Walker IV/APUSAUSMNT’s Mauricio Pochettino says nation lacks ‘emotional relationship’ with soccerCoach says basketball, American football have deeper tiesCalls for more publicly accessible playing spots in US On World Cup expectations: ‘All is possible in football’ Jeff RueterThu 30 Apr 2026 14.53 EDTLast modified on Thu 30 Apr 2026 14.54 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleIn a podcast appearance released Thursday, Mauricio Pochettino defended the tournament prospects of his US men’s national team, but gave a mixed answer when asked if the hosts…
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