Optimism Abounds As Pochettino Takes Helm Of USA Soccer Team

Add as a preferred source on Google

Jesse Marsch is hopeful that Mauricio Pochettino will bring positive changes as the new head coach of the United States. Pochettino was named on Tuesday as the successor to Gregg Berhalter, who was dismissed after a disappointing group-stage exit at this year's Copa America. The Argentine has committed to leading the USA into the 2026 World Cup, which they will co-host with Canada and Mexico.

Marsch, who was twice linked with taking over his native nation's team, revealed he wasn't interested in the role unless there were significant organisational changes. Despite this, he believes that Pochettino, who previously managed Tottenham, Paris Saint-Germain, and Chelsea, is undoubtedly the right person to lead the country forward.

"I think Pochettino is a good coach. One of his best things is that he's pretty malleable," Marsch said on the latest episode of Call It What You Want. "He really is pragmatic and tries to get the best out of his teams. He's not married to one system, which you can argue that's good and bad."

Marsch added that Pochettino's focus would be on maximising his best players' potential, a skill he demonstrated at PSG, Tottenham, and Chelsea. "Typically, that's been one of the things that he's done well. He's gotten really good performances out of his best players and that's helped his team win matches," Marsch noted.

Upcoming Matches for USMNT

Pochettino's first game in charge will be a friendly against Panama at Q2 Stadium in Austin on October 12. Following this match, the United States will face Mexico three days later.

Marsch remains optimistic about Pochettino's impact on both the team and soccer in the country. "It's yet to be known how it will all turn out," he said. "But I would be optimistic that he would be able to have a positive impact on the team and on the sport in the country."