Pochettino EXPLODES: “I hate talking about ‘regular’ players in USA”

Pochettino Criticizes the Idea of “Non-Regular Players” in the United States National Team After Victory Over Uruguay

The US national team’s technical director, Mauricio Pochettino, expressed his discontent with the idea of considering some players as “not regular” after the resounding 5-1 victory over Uruguay. This result marked the first time the United States has scored five goals against a World Cup winner or any South American team.

“I don’t want to be negative, but I hate that idea of ‘non-regular players’. What does that mean? It’s the United States playing, it’s the national team. We have to leave that mentality behind. Every time we have to choose a starting lineup, it’s the United States national team that’s playing,” Pochettino stated after the match at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa.

Mauricio Pochettino

Pochettino highlighted the importance of giving credit to all the players and praised the connection that is being built in the team. For the November window, Pochettino did not call up key figures such as Christian Pulisic, Chris Richards, Tim Weah, and Tyler Adams, who are recovering from injuries. Weston McKennie was also left out due to changes at Juventus. Pochettino had previously pointed out that no position in the squad for the 2026 World Cup was “safe.” After the victory, the coach was satisfied with the team’s progress.

“I am very happy, because reality is much better than what is thought. Much, much better. Before it was 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,” added Pochettino, who remains undefeated in five games.

Mauricio Pochettino

The most recent match included the first international goals from Alex Freeman, Sebastian Berhalter, and Tanner Tessmann. Freeman, son of former NFL player Antonio Freeman, was named Player of the Match after scoring two goals.

“This is our job, it’s our duty, to see the player’s projection. For that, we need to give the opportunity and see how they perform, how they act, the character, the mentality,” Pochettino commented on Freeman’s growth internationally.

Mauricio Pochettino

With a positive year-end, Pochettino and his team will return in 2026 with two friendlies in March. Then, they will begin the final preparation for the World Cup at the end of May/beginning of June, a tournament they will co-host with Mexico and Canada.