Pochettino Opens Up on USMNT World Cup Ambitions and Tottenham's Relegation Fight

When Mauricio Pochettino is asked whether the United States can capture the 2026 World Cup on home turf, his response is simple: "Why not?" But don't mistake it for empty optimism — the USMNT head coach knows exactly what obstacles stand between his squad and glory.

In a revealing appearance on The Overlap podcast, Pochettino didn't sugarcoat the hurdles his team faces. Christian Pulisic remains goalless in 2026. Recent friendly losses to Belgium and Portugal have raised eyebrows. Most critically, because the U.S. is co-hosting the tournament, there's been no competitive qualifying campaign to sharpen the team's edge or build rhythm. "Friendly games is what you play with your friends," Pochettino noted. "We are fighting to change that mindset."

It's a legitimate concern. Qualifying matches, despite their often monotonous nature, build something essential. They create high-pressure moments, develop instincts under stress, and forge the kind of team chemistry that can't be manufactured in exhibition matches. The Americans will enter the most significant tournament in their history without that foundation. Bettors eyeing the USMNT as a long-shot wager should factor in this significant disadvantage.

The Messi Question and Why the Women Lead the Way

Pochettino also tackled the question that continues to puzzle American soccer: how does a nation of 342 million people still lack a world-class homegrown playmaker? His answer points to the sport's cultural roots. "The kids in America don't develop that relationship until they are 11, 12 or 13," he explained, contrasting it with Argentina where that bond begins "before I started to walk."

The systemic challenges are undeniable. Youth soccer across the United States operates primarily through private schools and expensive pay-to-play models, battling for youngsters' attention against basketball and gridiron football. "It's not a factory, the ball teaches you not the coach" — a sharp critique suggesting the current structure is precisely that: an assembly line approach.

Interestingly, the women's side has already solved what Pochettino is attempting to fix. He acknowledged it directly: women are "ahead of men" in American soccer development. The USWNT's dominant history on the international stage confirms his assessment completely.

Tottenham: 'Really Sad' Memories

The conversation also turned to Tottenham Hotspur. After six seasons in North London, a Champions League final appearance, and a runner-up Premier League finish in 2016-17, Pochettino now watches his former side battling relegation with just four matches remaining.

"I really love Tottenham," he admitted. "It's one of the most important parts of my life as a coach and in my personal life too."

He didn't shy away from addressing the difficult aspects of his tenure. "We went 18 months without one signing — that was a record in the Premier League." He disclosed that failed attempts to sign Sadio Mané and Georginio Wijnaldum might have been the difference in pushing that team to silverware. "The problem is the assessment was coming from outside the club not inside — people start to intoxicate things."

Regarding a potential Premier League return: "I think my human profile and coach profile match very well with the Premier League and with the culture." He'll return to England's top division eventually. Whether Tottenham will still be there when he does remains the pressing question.