Finally, the USMNT and Mauricio Pochettino have found each other claiming to be a worthy pair. It’s been a long search inside the USA for the Stars and Stripes. They had to go back to European club coaches to find a suitable manager. While the decision was relatively easy for the USSF, Pochettino needed to contemplate more and shift from his comfort zone. However, with less time in hand, he opted to seek advice from Inter Miami coach Tata Martino, apart from Emma Hayes revealed the new USMNT boss.

The build-up to Mauricio Pochettino, joining USMNT, was more complex than it looked. A few people were involved, claimed Pochettino, speaking to Gary Neville in the first episode of the Overlap US. “Of course, Emma. And then Tata Martino, that is in Miami, because he was my captain when I was in Newell’s Old Boys and I have a very good relationship with him. I was talking only to these two persons here,” revealed the coach when asked whose advice he took before arriving.

Emma Hayes was already known to play a major role in his arrival from their old club, Chelsea. Having had coaching experience in the US for many years in the USL, Hayes has always admired the country. On the other hand, she also appreciated Pochettino since his spell at Spurs. Hence, after returning to the USA, the Englishwoman also advocated for both US Soccer and the former Argentina international to form a partnership.

However, Pochettino also turned to his senior Tata Martino, who, with the help of Lionel Messi, is acing the MLS. Apart from Inter Miami, Martino also had a successful period with Atlanta United, making him an experienced campaigner of US Soccer. Hence, Martino was the perfect person to give him an idea about USA soccer.

Mauricio Pochettino opens up about valuable insight from his contacts regarding US Soccer

This will be the first time the former PSG manager will coach a national outfit or a team outside Europe. Doing his due diligence was a key before taking up the role. While the impact of Hayes is already known, Martino’s wisdom reassured Mauricio Pochettino about his instincts. The Inter Miami coach advised he found some massive potential and talent in the US, which Pochettino also supposed.

Regardless, both Hayes and Martino had one common giveaway to Mauricio Pochettino. The USMNT coach claimed both coaches testified to the discipline and athleticism of the players in the USA and advised him to provide a competing environment for them. Moreover, Pochettino also informed of contacting his former player at Spurs Hugo Lloris, who joined LAFC recently gaining substantial information before his spell.

And as he promises to keep learning more, USMNT will be hopeful of getting into a winning space!