New United States coach Mauricio Pochettino has the potential to infuse the national team with a fighting spirit, according to midfielder Christian Pulisic, who spoke following Tuesday's 1-1 draw with New Zealand. Pulisic's goal was negated by Ben Waine's late equalizer in Cincinnati, and the AC Milan winger expressed optimism that Pochettino can instill the aggressive mentality and risk-taking attitude necessary for the team to compete at the highest level.
The Argentine coach, who departed American-owned Premier League club Chelsea in May after a single season in charge, will helm the team in preparation for the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the US, Mexico, and Canada. The US has been without a permanent coach since a disappointing early exit from the Copa America on home soil in July resulted in the dismissal of Gregg Berhalter after his second tenure as head coach.
"It's time to turn the page. We really need to step it up a notch," Pulisic told reporters late on Tuesday. "It feels pretty low right now, but I know there are better times ahead. Hopefully, he (Pochettino) brings a culture that is ready to fight, that is willing to take risks and win." Pulisic emphasized that several aspects need to change, particularly the mentality and culture within the team. He believes the quality is there, but acknowledges that these are the first areas Pochettino will aim to transform.
Pochettino, a former manager of Paris St Germain and Tottenham Hotspur, stated that his decision to join US soccer was not solely about football, but also about the journey the country is embarking on, and he could not pass up the opportunity. The US will next face friendly matches against Panama on October 12 and Mexico three days later.
