With all the prayers answered, Mauricio Pochettino became the head coach of the USMNT. The team needed some greater impetus, and the former EPL manager came in with much fanfare. However, what are the realistic expectations for the side? Yes, what actually can be a ‘goal’ for this USMNT side, who will be part of the FIFA World Cup in 2026? Soccer players, fans, pundits, and many more have put this question forward, and here is one more take on the never-ending list of opinions.

ESPN’s one and only Venezuelan icon Ale Moreno gave his verdict on the ‘realistic expectations.’ But before that, another person pointed out the realistic expectations. Former American soccer player Jimmy Conrad mentioned, “Now on paper, we should have a manageable opponent in the Round of 32. Round of 16, it’s gonna get sticky. So yeah, we still got some work to do.”

It’s really something to look forward to. With the current crop of players, one might say the USMNT underperformed in recent years. The Copa America tournament became the perfect recipe for success, yet the team burnt away.

With Panama edging them into the group table, everyone knew the boys needed a good old-fashioned coach, who would discipline them. Ale Moreno’s predictions may come true if they align with his methods.

“I imagine we are talking about the World Cup and if that’s the case, realistic for the United States would be getting out of their group,” said Moreno. Pochettino, himself, mentioned the USMNT’s expectations to be in the quarterfinals. Why the quarterfinals? A little favor in the fixtures would do the team the world of good, as Alex ideally pointed out.

“Potentially winning a round of 16 match. And then, getting into the quarterfinal, depending on the match-up. Then you start thinking maybe, maybe… But realistic, I think it’s something that should be demanded out of Pochettino and this team. And that would be, getting out of the group, win the round of 16, see what happens in the quarters,” concluded Moreno.

Now let me give you my positive ‘REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS!’

Mauricio Pochettino to win the World Cup, a far-fetched dream?

You must wonder what’s wrong with me in this prediction. But let me give you some positive perspective. Remember Euro 2004 when Greece defeated the mighty France and then Portugal in the finals to lift the Euro Cup? The mythological defensive Greek side shocked the world in 2004. It still lives fresh in the memory with a certain Angelos Charisteas leading the line. From one forward to another!

Jamie Vardy and Leicester City shocked the English Premier League by winning the title in 2016. The odds market was a joke. People placed bets on spotting a Loch Ness monster rather than Leicester City winning the league with 5000-1 odds. Yet, it happened.

Therefore, players like Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, and the 12th man (US soccer fans) can help the team in crossing the finishing line. With Pochettino at the helm, anything can be possible. Remember, he took a Tottenham side to a UEFA Champions League Final. He has 2 years to prepare the USMNT squad the way he wants.

Keep in mind that Spain, coming off a Euro 2024 final win over England, is now fuelled with rich young talent like Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams, and the loved Barcelona duo of Pedri and Gavi.

On the other hand, it seems impossible to imagine Lionel Messi retiring so close to the tournament. Well, if he had to retire, he would’ve bowed out when the opportunity presented itself. And then there’s the ‘it’s coming home’ vibe from England, who, interestingly have Cole Palmer emerge as a life-saver, however, a new head coach is yet to take over.

So, for the USA to be successful, keep in mind that all the above storylines will need to shatter. Hopefully, we see a dream-like narrative unfold in front of our eyes.