Pochettino and Pulisic Seek Alignment Ahead of USMNT Friendlies

The relationship between head coach Mauricio Pochettino and player Christian Pulisic has come under scrutiny as they prepare for the U.S. men’s national team (USMNT) training camp ahead of friendlies against South Korea and Japan this month. Their ability to reconcile differences will be crucial if the USMNT hopes to achieve its goal of a successful run in the 2026 World Cup.

Pulisic’s commitment to the team has been questioned recently. He declined to be substituted during the third-place match at the Concacaf Nations League last March, and his absence from the recent Gold Cup fueled further speculation. At the time, USSF sporting director Matt Crocker stated, “We made the collective decision that this is the right moment for [Pulisic] to get the rest he needs.” The statement was met with significant public backlash, including criticism from former USMNT players like Landon Donovan, who raised concerns about Pulisic’s dedication.

In a subsequent interview with CBS Sports, Pulisic expressed his willingness to participate in two pre-Gold Cup friendlies but claimed that Pochettino had declined his offer. This revelation seemed to add tension to their relationship. Pochettino responded by asserting his authority over team decisions, stating, “I am not a mannequin,” emphasizing that he alone would determine the playing roster.

As preparations for the friendlies unfold, Pochettino noted that he had not communicated with Pulisic since the Gold Cup, suggesting that unresolved issues linger. He remarked, “I think everything is behind us… we need to look forward.” This declaration raises questions about how effective their collaboration will be without prior dialogue.

While Pulisic is undoubtedly a key asset, the success of the USMNT at the World Cup will depend on multiple factors. The team must address its goalkeeping situation and ensure that defenders like Sergiño Dest and Antonee Robinson are fit to contribute effectively. Additionally, Tyler Adams needs to be at his best in midfield, and one of the available forwards—be it Folarin Balogun, Ricardo Pepi, Josh Sargent, or Haji Wright—must find form in the lead-up to the tournament.

Pulisic’s skill set as a creative forward adds significant value to the team’s offensive capabilities. When he is in peak condition and performing well, the overall performance of the team tends to improve. Scoring goals, a challenge in football, remains an area where Pulisic can make a vital impact.

Part of the dynamic between Pulisic and Pochettino stems from the latter’s efforts to instill a cultural reset within the USMNT. Pochettino is demanding total commitment from all players, regardless of their experience level. The coach previously voiced his concerns about players arriving at camp with the wrong mindset, stating, “If you arrive… and want to spend a nice time, play golf, go for dinner, visit my family, that is the culture that we want to create? No, no, no, no, no.” Instead, he emphasizes that focus and energy should be directed towards national team goals.

The adjustment to Pochettino’s approach has proven challenging for some players, including Pulisic. Defender Tim Ream acknowledged after the Gold Cup that the transition had taken longer than expected. During a recent media availability, he indicated that while there hadn’t yet been a team-wide meeting to set expectations, individual discussions were ongoing.

“We kind of know what the standard needs to be and what it is going forward,” Ream stated. He emphasized the importance of accountability among teammates to ensure a cohesive unit.

Pochettino, with an extensive managerial background that includes high-profile roles at Tottenham, Paris Saint-Germain, and Chelsea, is unlikely to change his methods to accommodate individual players. His approach, which has seen him achieve success in various leagues, reflects a commitment to building a strong team ethos.

As the USMNT moves forward, the onus will be on Pulisic to adapt to Pochettino’s strategies. The relationship between the two, while currently strained, has the potential to evolve positively, much like Pulisic’s past interactions with former manager Gregg Berhalter. Before the 2022 World Cup, Pulisic and Berhalter navigated similar challenges, ultimately aligning their visions for the team.

The upcoming friendlies will serve as a critical test for both Pochettino and Pulisic. For the USMNT to realize its ambitions, fostering a strong partnership between the coach and his star player will be essential.