Looks like the USMNT’s hunt for a new manager is finally coming to an end. After a hoist of names that were backed for the job, it seems they have whittled down to Mauricio Pochettino. The Argentinian tactician has become a serious candidate to lead the Star and Stripes. Even though the official announcement is still awaited, US icon Alexi Lalas is already questioning the potential hiring of Pochettino by delivering a 2-word response.

Renowned TV program Men in Blazers teased the potential move by sharing a picture of the former Tottenham Hotspur coach alongside the show’s host Roger Bennett on X. The British-American broadcaster posed while wrapping his arms around Poch’s neck. Of course, the picture was old as it was taken during the 53-year-old’s stint with PSG. However, they had edited the picture by hiding the Parisian club’s emblem with Team USA’s logo.

Additionally, the post saw a caption saying, “Mauricio Pochettino has agreed to become the next USMNT coach. 🙌🦅 Our recruiting is done. Rejoice America. We have a real coach. 🦅🙌” This caught the eye of Lalas, who retweeted the post with a succinct caption saying, “Unnecessary shot.” But why?

Seems like the USMNT icon isn’t approving his nation’s decision to sign the South American-born boss. Perhaps he rather wanted them to wait and bring another name for the job. Of course, the desperation to hire a new coach remains within the US Soccer Federation—it’s been over a month since Gregg Berhalter left the spot vacant.

Now it may be filled by the former Chelsea boss, who already doesn’t seem to have the greatest approval of all. But it’s quite ironic to see Lalas call Pochettino’s arrival unnecessary, considering he approved the manager.

Despite taking a shot at Mauricio Pochettino, Alexi Lalas advocated for the next USMNT coach to do beyond wins

In the latest episode of his State of the Union podcast, Alexi Lalas discussed the job description for the next USMNT coach. He emphasized that with the U.S. set to host the 2026 World Cup, the role is quite unique—not just for the tournament itself, but for the future as well. Lalas noted that with less than two years until the event, the incoming manager, whether it’s Pochettino or someone else, will need to focus on more than just securing victories and handling on-field tactics.

Their responsibility extends to inspire and excite the golden generation of players, much like Emma Hayes has done for the USWNT. Beyond winning, Lalas wants the next MNT manager to be a ‘proverbial pioneer.’ He continued, “You have to be the ambassador, spreading the gospel. Can Pochettino do that? Maybe. In a different way, his English isn’t great but I do think he can be that inspirational type of person that everyone says.”

Lalas himself called Pochettino a candidate to enlighten the Christian Pulisic and Co. Then why did he call out his potential hiring as ‘unnecessary‘? Perhaps it must have been directed at the social media post where Bennett mentioned it as a ‘real‘ acquisition. Lalas wants everyone to tone down the expectations or false narratives before even Pochettino has been announced. 

Regardless, what are your thoughts on Mauricio Pochettino becoming the next USMNT coach? Share your thoughts in the comments.