Former USMNT goalie Tim Howard is excited to see the Argentine coach Mauricio Pochettino take USA’s reins. However, Howard recalled the last time the US Soccer Federation hired a non-American coach for its men’s team. Jurgen Klinsmann, the German maestro, became the USMNT coach in 2011, marking the last time a foreign coach was hired. Having played under Klinsmann, Howard now thinks the German coach “specialized in fluff and philosophical rhetoric,” and cared less about soccer. Howard warned Pochettino he should be wary of not committing this mistake and urged him to understand ‘cultural nuances.’

The former US goalie remembers that Jurgen Klinsmann’s rein was fun-filled yet strict. But, neither the rigid practices nor the fun times helped the USMNT thrive during the era. Rather, Howard asserts it was a “disaster” for USMNT. So, the veteran insists Pochettino should quickly look into the Klinsmann era and learn about not committing the same mistakes.

Mauricio Pochettino should understand the American culture

Writing in his Daily Mail column, Tim Howard stressed that the USMNT coaching job is one of the top five National team coaching jobs out there. But, by citing Klinsmann’s example, he pointed out that Mauricio Pochettino has to navigate various challenges. “Pochettino is the first foreigner to coach the USMNT since Jurgen Klinsmann was appointed in 2011. I spent 15 years on the national team and I don’t remember a time when there was a bigger disconnect between the players and the manager than under Jurgen,” said Howard.

He added, “Jurgen tried to reinvent the wheel but he didn’t teach us a lot of soccer,” while recalling Klinsmann cut sugary snacks from players’ diet on one hand, while taking them to excursions on the other.

Howard continued, “The lesson for Pochettino to learn from Klinsmann? Understand the American player. Don’t make it about yourself. Every culture has different nuances – wherever you coach around the world.”

Thereafter, Howard mentioned that Pochettino should be keen on pushing players out of their comfort zones. But, the most important thing is he must learn “what makes players tick.” Besides Howard’s warning, Pochettino has already been receiving pressure from all sides for his USMNT switch.

Pochettino surrounded by naysayers and lofty expectations!

Former US defender and one of the most vocal pundits, Alexi Lalas appeared a bit dull about USMNT signing Mauricio Pochettino. Lalas took to X and shared a post that confirmed the Latin American coach’s trip to the American camp.

He said, “Unnecessary shot,” referring to the Pochettino move. Besides, former USWNT star Carli Lloyd said Pochettino should be keen on mirroring gold medal-winning US coach Emma Hayes’ management style.

Meanwhile, former Tottenham Hotspur star Alan Brazil claimed Pochettino took the easy route by snubbing England for the USMNT. Hence, the pressure is immense on the former Chelsea, PSG, and Spurs coach, considering the US-hosted 2026 World Cup is looming over. Many would be eager to blast the Argentine coach if he fails to shine in the WC, despite taking what many think is an easier job than the England coach’s.

Only time will tell if a non-American coach can uplift the USMNT after Germany’s Klinsmann failure.