The focus remains on Mauricio Pochettino‘s first game in charge following his appointment by the US Soccer Federation. Everyone’s thrilled and excited about the change in dynamics for the USMNT, but the players might not be. They have no reason not to perform after the world-class coach they have in their ranks. However, some players might have the Alex Morgan-Emma Hayes picture on their minds with Tim Ream in the spotlight.

The defender, now 37, might face the axe like Emma Hayes decided to drop off an experienced Alex Morgan for the Olympics squad as she preferred a younger team. Lend me your ears. Morgan won two World Cups and one Olympic gold medal with the USWNT. Hence, a former USMNT icon, Herculez Gomez, appeared in the Men in Blazers podcast, with Roger Bennett, spotting Tim Ream to have little pressure, similar to that of Alex Morgan.

Notably, Bennett had a few strong words mentioning Hayes and Morgan. He stated, “One thing I think about Emma Hayes. She came in and made a massive change. She killed off, ended, Alex Morgan’s international career, and she said to these young players, it’s on you now. You are my front three. Let me take the pressure off you. Let me put it on myself, essentially, is what she did.”

After hearing this statement, in the blink of an eye, Gomez remarked, “No pressure, Tim Ream.” The two chuckled and discussed this, as Rog understood why he mentioned it. It paints an excellent picture in terms of the pressure on older soccer players who come to the twilight years of their careers. Therefore, it’s something we often think about. With Emma Hayes heading in another direction with a young and vibrant front three, what’s Poch got in store for Tim Ream?

Mauricio Pochettino can revitalize or break Tim Ream’s career

It’s a big change. Yes. The USMNT struggled for the past two decades with 1-2 quarterfinal appearances in major tournaments. To sum up, they need a trophy and need players who can step. In fact, Tim Ream marshaled the defense for a long time, leading them from the back. His playing days in Fulham earned him the recognition he needed by making over 312 appearances.

And yes, when you play 312 games for an English Premier League side, you are bound to be the first name on the team sheet.

Pochettino can decide whether he wants to hold on to the defender. With Joe Scally and Mark McKenzie entering the play very young, Ream’s golden days might come to an end. However, there might be ways to use the last ounce of energy in his bucket. In fitness terms, Ream is excellent and aging like fine old wine.

So yes, his experience can lead them to a major trophy. But you never know. Sometimes managers want to work fresh and Ream comes in hanging for his place in the national squad. Do you think Pochettino should keep Tim Ream or drop him?