Aging is the inevitable course of life. When it comes to soccer, nothing saddens us more than watching the careers of our favorite stars wind down, while the players themselves grapple with accepting their fate. In the case of Tim Ream, however, the fans from his own nation have tagged him as quite old to play for the 2026 World Cup for the USMNT. Yet, the defender isn’t giving up, refusing to take himself ‘out of the hat’ ahead of Mauricio Pochettino‘s takeover.

Ream wouldn’t fancy the idea of seeing his beloved nation host and play the prestigious tournament in his absence. Hence, the 36-year-old has rather taken a hit back over the criticism surrounding his selection for the next international endeavor.

“I think there is no reason that I should not be [in the 2026 roster]. I understand that playing is an important part of that. I’m not going to take myself out of the hat just because people want me to or people think I’m too old. I don’t see the point of that,” he said, as per the Athletic Soccer.

In order to maintain his playing status, Ream left Fulham to sign for Charlotte FC weeks ago. The defender parted ways with the Premier League side after 9 years of service to the Cottagers, before spending three years at Bolton. This isn’t the first time he will be playing in the MLS; before moving to England, he enjoyed a year stint with the New York Red Bulls.

Now, playing in his homeland is one of the best ways possible to win over the confidence of the crowd. After all, there is also no choice for Ream but to portray such a mentality, especially considering that the Star and the Stripes are set to have a manager who won’t fancy any excuses!

Tim Ream should make more efforts to impress Mauricio Pochettino for his 2026 World Cup chances

USMNT legend Brad Friedel, who played for Mauricio Pochettino during his time as Tottenham’s goalkeeper, has cautioned Christian Pulisic and his teammates about the tougher side of the 52-year-old coach. While the Argentinian tactician is ‘incredibly compassionate to players who work hard’, a ‘No nonsense’ attitude will remain for Poch.

“His tactical session is probably harder than most MLS sessions that are out there,” said the former goalie, a stark indication to Tim Ream, who just moved to Charlotte. Likewise, Pochettino will also not put up with players who think they ‘deserve’ to be on the team. Rather players including Pulisic will have to ‘earn the right’ to be in the team.

“But I tell you, once he has his team together, it’s such a good, positive, really good working environment. It’s very difficult for players not to enjoy playing football under him,” concluded Friedel on a positive note. Although Pochettino is considered a safe choice for the USMNT, how things will unfold under his leadership is still uncertain.

For now, Tim Ream shall continue with this attitude if the veteran wishes to play his last World Cup.