Pochettino Vows World Cup Glory to Trump—Will USMNT Rise to the Challenge?
United States men's national team head coach Mauricio Pochettino disclosed that he promised President Donald Trump the Stars and Stripes could capture the 2026 FIFA World Cup, taking place primarily on American territory.
The Argentine tactician, who assumed control of the USMNT in September 2024, appeared on the High Performance Podcast and discussed a short meeting with President Trump during the 2026 World Cup draw in December.
"During the World Cup draw ceremony, I had a brief conversation with Donald Trump. He questioned me, 'What are your thoughts, coach. Are you capable of winning the World Cup?' " Pochettino remembered.
"I responded, 'Absolutely, Mr President.' This is the USA. The American dream exists here. It's about achieving first place. Being number one. We truly believe victory is possible. We find ourselves in a position where, following eighteen months, supporters are beginning to believe we can triumph."
The Stars and Stripes secured a promising draw for the tournament, facing Paraguay, Australia and either Türkiye, Romania, Slovakia or Kosovo in Group D. With the "enormous advantage" of playing before home supporters, Pochettino feels optimistic about his squad's potential for a successful tournament run.
Pre-World Cup Fixtures Will Reveal If Pochettino's Confidence Is Justified
Pre-World Cup Fixtures Will Reveal If Pochettino's Confidence Is Justified
Following early difficulties under Pochettino's new management, the USMNT found momentum to finish 2025 strongly. The Stars and Stripes concluded the year with a five-match undefeated streak, securing wins against Japan, Australia, Paraguay and Uruguay. What makes this achievement more remarkable is the team managed this run while missing several key players.
The adversaries awaiting Pochettino's squad in March and June, however, offer a completely different level of difficulty. During the March international break, the USMNT will encounter Belgium and current UEFA Nations League champions Portugal.
Subsequently in June, the Stars and Stripes' final two contests before the World Cup will be against newly crowned AFCON winners Senegal and Germany.
Competing against such elite opposition will serve as the true measure of the USMNT's championship potential. Certainly, the squad has demonstrated its ability to overcome Concacaf, CONMEBOL and Oceania rivals, but it will probably need to surpass European and African powerhouses to create history this summer.
Disappointing performances in the tournament preparation could undermine Pochettino's pledge to President Trump before the World Cup commences. Several wins or even competitive draws, however, might provide the confidence surge the team requires to shine on football's biggest platform, even though they realistically may not be prepared to overcome the tournament contenders; Spain, Argentina and France.
Will Pochettino's Future Remain With the USMNT?
Will Pochettino's Future Remain With the USMNT?
Upon accepting the USMNT position, Pochettino agreed to a two-year deal extending through the 2026 World Cup. If the Stars and Stripes excel this summer, U.S. Soccer would presumably seek to secure his long-term commitment.
However, the 53-year-old hinted at a possible European soccer comeback during the podcast, stating the trophy he most desires to claim is the Champions League. Pochettino immediately clarified he "isn't certain" which club that would be.
The ambition to claim Europe's most coveted prize comes as no shock given it escaped him during his tenures at Spurs, Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea. But it also raises the inquiry: Is Pochettino planning a European return after the World Cup?
Only Pochettino holds that answer, but the mere existence of this question creates uncertainty regarding the manager's USMNT future. A disappointing World Cup showing on home ground could drive the Argentine back to Europe, leaving the Stars and Stripes facing another rebuilding phase once more.