Mauricio Pochettino has pledged to transform the culture and standards within the United States men’s national team at the outset of his second tenure. His comments appeared directed at star player Christian Pulisic, who opted out of the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup for rest ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

During an online Q&A session, Pochettino stated, "It was difficult to make the roster for the Gold Cup one year before because the mindset was different. You say, 'If I play, I have not holidays. I cannot arrive fresh for the World Cup.' ... You know now that is bull----." He emphasized the need to change outdated attitudes regarding player participation.

Pulisic, regarded as the top player in the squad, cited his need for recovery after a challenging season with AC Milan, where he scored 10 goals in 15 matches early on but went goalless in the following 19 fixtures. He has yet to play in the current season, remaining an unused substitute in the opening three games.

Pochettino, who succeeded Gregg Berhalter in the fall of 2024, aims to introduce a new era for the team, with an upcoming squad announcement on September 17. The initial fixtures will include friendlies against Peru (Sept. 26), Chile (Sept. 29), Mexico (Oct. 3), and Canada (Oct. 6).

He noted the importance of fostering a professional environment, stating, "A new process, new project, new rules, new principles. We need to create a group of players that are really being professional and compete in the way that we expect."

Pochettino also mentioned potential recalls for players like Diego Luna and Tanner Tessmann, along with emerging talent such as Cavan Sullivan. He plans to carefully manage young players’ integration into the national team, emphasizing the need for confidence and proper management.

In addition, Pochettino is set to reach out to striker Folarin Balogun, who faced a failed transfer from Monaco to Everton, reaffirming his support for the player. Furthermore, he acknowledged the ongoing uncertainty regarding defender Noahkai Banks, who is contemplating representing either the U.S. or Germany.