Comparing to Cristiano Ronaldo, Mauricio Pochettino’s Decision to Include ‘Unproven’ USMNT Player Slammed by Alexi Lalas

When it comes to building a strong team, the choices made often carry both tactical and symbolic significance. This is particularly true in high-pressure situations where emerging talents face off against seasoned players. Such was the context of Alexi Lalas’s recent critique. The USMNT legend expressed his confusion over Mauricio Pochettino’s decision to include an “unproven” young USMNT goalkeeper, Diego Cochin. Lalas compared the move to the strategic handling of legends like Cristiano Ronaldo. This sparked a debate on merit, potential, and the challenges of nurturing future talent.

The competition for the USMNT goalkeeping position is intense. Matt Turner, a skilled shot-stopper with Premier League experience, remains the leading candidate. Although his situation has become complicated due to inconsistent playing time. “Turner will get some of the benefit of the doubt,” Lalas acknowledged. However, the emergence of new talents and evolving contenders for the spot has complicated what was once a more straightforward choice. 

In the podcast, Lalas voiced his confusion over Cochin’s rapid inclusion, pointing out what he sees as a lack of significant achievements to warrant the role. “Is this a Ronaldo-type situation where we’re just planning ahead?” he asked, referencing the Portuguese star’s strategic use in the latter stages of his career. Unlike Ronaldo’s scenario, where legendary status and proven records support even symbolic decisions, Cochin’s experience is mostly limited to playing at Barcelona B. For Lalas, the distinction was crucial, “What has he done to deserve it?” he questioned directly.

He presented it as an issue of competitive integrity among the USMNT’s goalkeepers. If there is indeed a genuine competition for the position, he contended, the roster should include players with similar skills, demonstrated abilities, and a history of significant contributions on the field.

 “Shouldn’t you be selecting individuals who can truly compete?” Lalas questioned. He voiced a sentiment that many fans likely resonate with, valuing transparency and intense competition over mere potential.

USMNT players who need to prove themselves internationally

As the U.S. Men’s National Team gears up for their two-legged Nations League matchup against Jamaica with new head coach Mauricio Pochettino at the helm, several players have a significant opportunity to make an impression. Injuries to key forwards and absences due to load management have created openings for others to step up. Here are few players who have the most to gain during this international window.

Ricardo Pepi is one of the promising forwards positioned higher on the depth chart than Vazquez. Despite limited playing time at PSV, Pepi has been effective, scoring seven goals in just 516 minutes. Pochettino sees the injuries to Sargent and others as an opportunity for both Pepi and Vazquez to compete for their places in the squad.

Brandon Vazquez is another forward eager to showcase his talent. The forward, known for his aerial prowess, has made a mark at CF Monterrey. Vazquez has netted 13 goals since his arrival last January. With Josh Sargent, Folarin Balogun, and Haji Wright sidelined, Vazquez has a chance to prove he deserves a long-term spot on the team.  

Midfielders like Johnny Cardoso have yet to translate his club success at Real Betis to the national team. With Tyler Adams unavailable, Cardoso has a chance to secure his position amid competition from Tanner Tessmann and Aidan Morris.

Lastly, Cade Cowell looks to take advantage of Tim Weah’s suspension and the absence of other attackers. With five goals for Chivas, Cowell’s speed and attacking creativity could cement a spot on the 2026 World Cup roster.