Mauricio Pochettino's Unique Method of Informing USMNT Players

Mauricio Pochettino's approach to informing his U.S. World Cup squad members about their selection has taken on a life of its own. On Tuesday, the day the 26-man squad was officially named, the method Pochettino used to notify players became a central theme at his post-roster-reveal press conference. Pochettino recorded a video to share with the selected players, which he posted in a WhatsApp group chat, asking each player to respond. U.S. Soccer provided a detailed timeline of events, explaining that players and clubs were informed of Pochettino’s decision on Friday at 1 p.m. At that time, a team manager created a WhatsApp group for those selected. Pochettino’s video message was posted in the chat, and emails were then sent to players and clubs confirming the decisions.

Players' Emotional Reactions

In his video, Pochettino expressed his excitement, stating, "Guys, if you are watching that video, it’s because you are in. I am so excited to communicate that you are going to be on the roster for the World Cup 2026 in the World Cup that we are going to host." He then asked players to respond with a video of their own. The players' responses were filled with joy and emotion, with many expressing cathartic sentiments like "Let’s go, boys!" Notable highlights include Alex Freeman’s father, former Green Bay Packers wide receiver Antonio Freeman, making a cameo in his son’s video, and Matt Turner’s young children chanting "U-S-A!" Antonee Robinson and Christian Pulisic both urged the team to "win this whole thing" and "win a World Cup on home soil" respectively.

Team Preparation and Upcoming Matches

The U.S. team has already begun preparations for the World Cup, traveling to Georgia to the U.S. Soccer national training center. They will start pre-World Cup training, preparing for Sunday’s friendly against Senegal in Charlotte, N.C. However, Chris Richards will join the team later due to his club, Crystal Palace, being in the UEFA Conference League final against Rayo Vallecano. Despite his ankle injury, the squad is set and the mood is upbeat as the home World Cup approaches. The players’ excitement is evident as they gear up for the historic event on their home soil.