Pochettino: The name doesn’t guarantee a spot in the World Cup, USMNT to the competition

Pochettino: Reputations Don’t Guarantee a Spot at the World Cup

The United States coach, Mauricio Pochettino, has made it clear that current performance is the determining factor for securing a place in the national team for the World Cup. In a press conference prior to the friendlies against Ecuador and Australia, Pochettino emphasized that past performance and renown do not guarantee a call-up. Pochettino was enthusiastic about welcoming 26 players to the camp that will begin on October 4, highlighting the competition for a place in the team. “It’s not because of your name that you will have a guaranteed place in the World Cup,” said the coach.

“We have been working to change the culture and vision, leaving behind the idea that past performance secures a place. We have changed a lot,” added Pochettino.

Mauricio Pochettino

The call-up seems to include the most outstanding players. Among those returning to the team are Tanner Tessmann, midfielder for Lyon; Aidan Morris, midfielder for Middlesbrough; Antonee Robinson, defender for Fulham; and Weston McKennie, midfielder for Juventus. Robinson was called up for the first time in 2025 after recovering from knee surgery. Pochettino highlighted the importance of continuity for Tessmann and Morris, mentioning that “they need continuity to help us perform.” Regarding Robinson, the coach indicated that he will handle his situation carefully due to his lack of playing time at Fulham. “We know Robinson is an important player for us and I think it’s time to bring him in,” Pochettino said. “We are talking to his club and we will try to handle the situation in the best way, but it’s important that he is with us, with the group, with his teammates.” He also referred to the absence of some experienced players on the list, such as Yunus Musah and Joe Scally, and excused Tyler Adams due to the imminent arrival of his baby. Pochettino also praised the recent performance of Christian Pulisic, AC Milan’s attacker, who leads Serie A with four goals this season. “He is a player who has continuity and I think we can say that he is the most important player right now for the national team, who is performing and playing under a lot of pressure,” Pochettino said of Pulisic. “He is playing well and we are very happy when he scores goals, provides assists and performs.”