There’s something both unique and familiar about Mauricio Pochettino‘s hiring as the USMNT manager. No, it’s not just that US Soccer is employing yet another ex-Chelsea boss, as they did with Emma Hayes for the WNT. Rather, the Argentine coach follows in the footsteps of Jurgen Klinsmann as another non-American to take charge of the Stars and Stripes. While the former German tactician didn’t achieve the expected results, Landon Donovan has raised a yellow flag, offering crucial advice to Pochettino to help him avoid a similar fate.

Undoubtedly, the 52-year-old has seen more than what any previous coaches may have seen or coached in Europe. However, the former Tottenham boss must be aware of the American ways as well. This was one thing that Donovan talked about in the latest episode of Alexi Lalas’ State of the Union Podcast.

“It’s incumbent upon the manager to really learn about the players, the culture, the country and really ingrain themselves in all of that and integrate in a really meaningful way. You get buying from the players really quickly,” insisted the former US striker, giving a to-do list that Pochettino should follow just after arriving in the US camp.

“From everything I know and have heard of Pochettino, he’s going to excel massively in that way. But that is a big piece of it.” Interestingly, Donovan gave an example of a typical player who goes to a foreign country to play. He explained that beyond performing well on the field, the player often attempts to learn the local language, adapt to the culture, and integrate into the team, which is a “big, big plus” in Donovan’s eyes.

This effort also leaves an indelible impression on both teammates and coaches. The recently hired San Diego Wave boss believes the same principle applies in reverse, particularly in the case of Pochettino. Fortunately, having spent more than 7 years in England working for clubs including Southampton, Tottenham, and Chelsea, Pochettino has a good hold on his English. Hence, communication with the players shouldn’t be a problem.

Rest; the former PSG boss should try to get familiar with the other off-court aspects to lead a successful American life. This will also help him win the hearts of ardent fans. Yet, in the eyes of Donovan, that may also be less in order to survive as a USMNT coach.

Landon Donovan is ‘cautiously optimistic’ about Mauricio Pochettino as USMNT manager

Aside from giving the secret spice of getting successful as a USMNT manager, Landon Donovan seemingly played down the excitement of Mauricio Pochettino’s impending arrival. “I’m cautiously optimistic,” he said to Alexi Lalas, emphasizing that a big-name coach doesn’t guarantee success. Although Donovan has immense respect for Pochettino as a manager, he’s concerned about how things will unfold for the USMNT under his leadership.

Donovan recognizes that Pochettino is not just a famous name, but also a highly skilled coach. However, he’s uncertain how well everything will “gel together” under Pochettino’s guidance. Donovan pointed out that even great managers don’t always achieve positive outcomes, while sometimes lesser-known coaches, despite lower expectations, end up experiencing significant success.

“At this point, I don’t really care which way it goes. I just want us to be successful because this event [2026 World Cup] is the biggest opportunity in the Men’s National Team history for us to showcase ourselves,” added the NWSL coach. Perhaps if Pochettino takes up Donovan’s advice, he may prove everyone wrong.