Imagine being the starting goalkeeper for the US men’s national team, only to be unexpectedly dropped from the World Cup roster. Coach Gregg Berhalter left Zack Steffen off the 2022 World Cup roster. On the other hand, Mauricio Pochettino became the new manager of the USMNT earlier this month by replacing Gregg Berhalter, has given Steffen renewed hope.

Steffen has been making a name for himself in Europe, playing for Manchester City and getting loaned out to other teams. In the summer of 2023, Steffen underwent knee surgery and was looking for a new team. That’s when the Colorado Rapids signed him to a three-year contract, but will he be able to regain his spot as the starting goalkeeper for the USMNT? Only time will tell. 

In a recent interview, the 29-year-old opened up about his toughest moments and his hope for a return to the national team. “Of course I would love to get back to the national team. I hope [Mauricio Pochettino] remembers me from City. I hope he gives everybody a chance,” said Steffan.

After the injury, his club situation as the No. 2 goalkeeper at Manchester City got worse. Steffen hasn’t since played for the USMNT. “It’s really tough [being away from the USMNT]. Especially after being number one for so long. It’s been tough, bro; it really hurts,” he shared.

“I handle it now by talking to a therapist. I talk to a life coach as well. I’m working through emotions and past traumas that I had growing up.”

With consistent playing time in Colorado, Zach Steffen has regained his sharpness and confidence. “I was overthinking, putting too much pressure on myself. But now, I’m just playing the game, not reading too much into it.” But one thing’s for sure: Zack Steffen isn’t done yet. He’s ready to prove himself once again.

Mauricio Pochettino’s challenges: A World Cup on Home Soil

The stage is set for a history-creating moment in US soccer; the pressure is really unreal. A home World Cup is always a once-in-a-long time opportunity, and the expectations from fans are sky high. Although the USMNT has frequently found it demanding to play at its peak in major competitions, Pochettino is not one to back down from a challenge.

The midfield is one of Pochettino’s top priorities. However, athletes with potential, including Yunus Musah, Weston McKennie, and Tyler Adams, are promising. They haven’t played well in the recent competitions.

Likewise, the USMNT has struggled to find a consistent goal scorer in recent years. Pochettino will need to select a player who can lead the line effectively. Ricardo Pepi, Timothy Weah, Haji Wright, and Folarin Balogun are all potential candidates, but none of them has really secured their place as the main striker. 

As the countdown to the 2026 World Cup begins, Pochettino has a long to-do list. But if he can overcome these challenges, he might be able to guide the USMNT to their first-ever made-at-home World Cup victory.