Pochettino Claims He's Transformed Three USMNT Stars Into World Cup Game-Changers for 2026

United States men's national team head coach Mauricio Pochettino highlighted Max Arfsten, Matt Freese and Alex Freeman as three prime examples of player growth since assuming his role in late 2024.

One factor that likely made Pochettino an appealing choice to succeed Gregg Berhalter was his proven ability in nurturing talent. The Argentine coach mentored some of the Premier League's biggest stars during his stints with Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea, including Dele Alli, Christian Eriksen, Son Heung-min, Harry Kane and Cole Palmer.

This current USMNT generation, widely regarded as one of the most gifted in American soccer history, features players competing in Europe's elite leagues. According to Pochettino, three Major League Soccer athletes he's worked with since taking charge have reached the standard of their overseas counterparts.

"We recognized in these individuals that there was room for advancement. When you compare players who participated in the previous World Cup to Freeman or Max [Arfsten], who began playing with us less than twelve months ago, they now equal the caliber of European-based players. This is clear. It's apparent that they've reached the same standard," Pochettino told Fox Sports.

MLS Players Taking Key Roles in Pochettino's USMNT

Pochettino, despite experiencing mixed results during his first year leading the USMNT, is building positive momentum following a successful October training camp. The national team tied with Ecuador and beat Australia, with both matches providing encouraging signs. This progress stems partly from MLS players competing for starting positions and growing under the coach's guidance.

New York City FC's Freese appears positioned as the USMNT's primary goalkeeper going forward after assuming starting responsibilities during the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup. Previous starter Matt Turner was omitted from the November roster.

At the fullback positions, Columbus Crew's Arfsten and Orlando City's Freeman have impressed lately. Both defenders have received regular call-ups following injuries to Fulham's Antonee Robinson and PSV Eindhoven's Sergiño Dest.

Although Robinson continues recovering from a knee injury, Dest received a call-up for November matches against Paraguay and Uruguay. Pochettino will likely provide both fullbacks substantial playing time during this camp as he continues determining his optimal starting lineup.

The Argentine coach, however, must work around several important absences while seeking to maintain positive progress into the new year.

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