Pochettino EXPLODES: "I hate" labels for USA players after historic thrashing

Pochettino Defends the United States National Team After Historic Rout

Technical director Mauricio Pochettino defended the United States men’s national soccer team after their resounding 5-1 victory over Uruguay. This result marked a milestone, being the first time the American team has scored five goals against a world champion or any South American team.

“I don’t want to be negative, but I hate, I hate that ‘non-regular players’ thing. What does that mean? It’s the United States playing, it’s the national team. Leave that mentality. Every time we decide the starting lineup, it’s the United States national team that plays”.
Mauricio Pochettino

Pochettino expressed his discontent at the idea that some players were not considered regular, emphasizing the respect that each team member deserves. He highlighted the importance of unity and teamwork, aspects that, according to him, have improved significantly. For this match, Pochettino did not call up figures such as Christian Pulisic, Chris Richards, Tim Weah, and Tyler Adams, who are recovering from injuries. Weston McKennie was also absent due to changes at his club. The coach reminded that no position in the squad for the 2026 World Cup is guaranteed. After the victory, Pochettino expressed satisfaction with the team’s progress during the November training camp.

“I am very, very happy, because the reality is much better than what is thought. Much, much better. Before it was very, very different. It was completely different. Of course, there is still a lot of work to be done, but I think it’s about continuing to believe, continuing to push”.
Mauricio Pochettino

The match against Uruguay, which ended with a score of 5-1, represents the United States’ largest victory against a South American team. In this match, Alex Freeman, Sebastian Berhalter, and Tanner Tessmann scored their first international goals. Freeman, son of former NFL player Antonio Freeman, was named player of the match after scoring two goals. Pochettino praised Freeman’s performance and highlighted his potential. He pointed out that the goal is to evaluate the growth of the players and give them opportunities to demonstrate their worth.

“I am very happy, because today he scored two goals. I think we have to analyze the way he plays. He can play as a third center-back, he can go forward, on the sides, inside… When he has the ball, the team feels relieved”.
Mauricio Pochettino

The US selection closed the year 2025 on a high note. The team will return in 2026 with two friendlies in March and will begin the final preparation for the World Cup that they will co-host with Mexico and Canada next summer.