The level of understanding that Mauricio Pochettino brings to the US soccer team would please the fans. One of the finest tactical minds in the modern game took charge of USMNT offering at least a quarterfinal place as a realistic expectation for the 2026 World Cup. Yet, there is work to do. If you compare the men’s team to the women’s, they have fallen back in line. And yes, they have work to do with the benchmark now with Emma Hayes and the USWNT.

Significantly, a former USMNT soccer player, Herculez Gomez, detailed in the Rog Bennett-hosted ‘Men in Blazers’ interview what he wanted from the USMNT as he compared the team to Emma Hayes’ bunch of stars. He explained, “Oh, I believe he can change a lot. I really do. Listen, it’s a very simple game and a lot of it is emotional and psychological.”

Yes, he also pointed out that Emma Hayes’ arrival at the USWNT changed the entire perspective of the team heading to the Olympics. “And evidence of that is Emma Hayes and what she was able to do with the US Women’s National team. What did it take, 40 days?”, continued Gomez.

The host corrected him to 72 days and, yes, Emma Hayes completed the 2023 World Cup debacle in 72 days. He proceeded, “There you 72 days from the worst showing for a World Cup in a team that historically dominated the international game, to us doubting if the rest of the world’s caught up.”

Therefore, it remains imperative for Pochettino to perform in his first game in charge against Panama. Shortly after, the team will face Mexico in a tight game. These games give us a preview of what Pochettino did in the last several weeks. Gomez stated the perception would be for the Argentine coach.

Mauricio Pochettino’s benchmark is high!

He concluded, “And by the way, the message is very similar from when Emma Hayes came in and Pochettino. Self-awareness. You’re not as good as you thought. Back to the basics. And look what she did with this team at the Olympics. How many camps did she have before the Olympics?”

Getting the basics right would be critical. Similar to Emma Hayes, Pochettino would need to call out his players, get to know their psyche, and understand their limitations. Some of them are young and need a magnificent coach to give them a kick in their career. Implementing a counter-attacking philosophy can enable the USMNT better control in matches, leading to fewer goals being conceded.

Therefore, we have high expectations for Pochettino. If Emma Hayes could do it, he can do it as well. The differences between the USWNT and USMNT squads are much higher than anyone. One is a successful team in the women’s game while the other tries to find its step. Hopefully, it all comes together.

Do you think Mauricio Pochettino can lead the team forward?