Current USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino has been questioned by multiple occasions about the list of selected players, and the latest call is no exception.
After these questions, Pockettino was involved in a tense moment during the press conference, where he introduced the October team for his best friend with Ecuador and Australia.
Mauricio Pochettino: USMNT shows unity and combat spirit
It all happened when journalist Jeff Carlisle asked him about the absence of Yunus Musa and Joe Scully and asked about the competition before Patrick Agieman, Foralin Balogun and Haji Wright.
Mauricio Pochettino responds to criticism of his team
The Argentine coach’s response was amazing. “Next, I’ll give me a list and then I’ll discuss it. I’ll never explain to players who haven’t explained why they weren’t called.
His words immediately sparked debate. Former soccer player and ESPN analyst Herculez Gomez criticized the coach’s tone, noting that Carlisle is one of the most respected journalists in the country and that the question was simple. For Gomez, Pockettino’s response was “combat,” reflecting his attitude: “Who are you asking me questions?”
Pockettino himself then explains that when he certifies his position and asks about his absence, he conveys the idea that some players are called “right.” The coach emphasized that he is looking for a balance within the group and that players who are not on the team today may be considered in the list of futures.
We always try to create the best team possible, and the names you mentioned may be with us in the future
USMNT Squad List
The team included figures such as Christian Pulicich (AC Milan), Weston McKenney (Juventus) and Foralin Balogun (as Monaco), as well as young people such as Patrick Aguierman and Diego Luna. Experienced defenders like Tim Ream and Antony Robinson will also be returning.
Goalkeeper:
Chris Brady (Chicago Fire) Matt Freeze (New York City FC) Patrick Schulte (Columbus Crew) Matt Turner (New England Revolution)
Defender:
Max Alfsten (Columbus Crew), Cameron Carter Bickers (Celtic), Alex Freeman (Orlando City), Mark Mackenzie (Toulouse FC), Tim Reem (Charlotte FC), Christ Richards (Crystal Palace), Antony Robinson (Fulham), Miles Robinson (FC Cincinnati)
Midfielder:
Brenden Arson (Leeds United) Diegorna (Real Salt Lake) Weston McKenny (Juventus) Aidan Morris (Middlesbrough) Christian Roldan (Seattle Sounders) James Sands (FC St. Pauli) Tanatesman (Olympic Lyon) Mariktilman
forward:
Patrick Aggieman (Derby County) Foralin Balogun (as Monaco) Christian Purisic (AC Milan) Tim Weir (Marseille) Haji Wright (Coventry City) Alex Zendejas (Club USA)
With familiarity around the corner and qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup approaching, Pockettino’s challenge is not only to integrate competitive teams, but to settle down with media management.
