New USA coach Pochettino eager to build squad of players 'desperate to fight'
Mauricio Pochettino stated on Sunday that he will not attempt to persuade dual-nationality players to choose the United States, emphasizing his intention to assemble a team comprised of players who are genuinely eager to represent the nation.
Pochettino is gearing up for his second training camp with the United States following his initial matches as head coach against Panama and Mexico last month.
The Argentine coach announced a 25-man roster on Sunday for this month's CONCACAF Nations League quarter-final against Jamaica and confirmed that his staff is evaluating various players worldwide who are eligible to play for the United States.
Nevertheless, Pochettino indicated that his team would not invest excessive effort in trying to convince dual-nationality players to commit to the United States as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup.
Two players, in particular, have been mentioned as potential candidates for the U.S. national team: Anrie Chase of Stuttgart and Luca Koleosho of Burnley. Chase is eligible to represent both Japan and the United States, while Koleosho has the option to play for Italy, Canada, or the USA.
While Pochettino refrained from commenting specifically on Chase and Koleosho, he affirmed that the opportunity would always be available for players who could enhance his squad.
"If we genuinely believe that a player can assist us and elevate our performance, we will be fully engaged in that situation," Pochettino remarked. "I prefer not to disclose names, but we are exploring other players to determine their willingness to commit to us."
Ultimately, Pochettino stressed that a player's personal attitude and desire to represent the United States are paramount. "We do not need to persuade anyone. A player must have the desire to play for the national team.
I am Argentinian, and I was eager to represent Argentina... it was not about a contract or the chance to play in Europe. No, I was passionate about defending my badge and my flag."
The American player must exhibit a sense of urgency and demonstrate his value to the team. Otherwise, we risk presenting ourselves as a weak Federation.
Our preference may lean towards individuals who, while perhaps less talented, possess a fervent desire to represent the team and fight for our nation.
If they embody this mindset and conduct, they will undoubtedly be afforded the chance to showcase their abilities.
The United States will face Jamaica in the first leg of their quarter-final match in Kingston on Thursday, with the return leg scheduled for November 18th in St. Louis.
Pochettino's squad announcement on Sunday revealed few unexpected selections.
He noted that midfielder Tyler Adams, who played for Bournemouth in the Premier League on Saturday, was omitted from the squad as he continues to recover from injury.
However, Pochettino assured that Adams would be reintegrated into the team once he achieves full fitness, mentioning that he had previously sought to sign the midfielder during his tenure at Chelsea.
"He's a crucial player for the team's future," Pochettino stated.
"Nonetheless, we must prioritize his well-being to ensure he is in optimal condition for 2026."
SportsLigue