Despite a wave of criticism surrounding Mauricio Pochettino’s first year in charge of the US Men’s National Team, one familiar voice has come out firmly in his defence — Brad Friedel.
The former USA goalkeeper, who earned 82 caps for his country and knows Pochettino from their time together at Tottenham Hotspur, has no doubts about the Argentine’s leadership.
“I know how good he is. I know how good his staff is,” Friedel told The Daily Mail. “Mauricio is one of the smartest managers and leaders in global football — not just CONCACAF, global football.”
“He’s a Warrior, It’s in His Blood”
Friedel painted a vivid picture of a manager whose DNA is built on fight and structure.
“He’s Argentinian. It’s in his blood — he’s a fighter, a warrior. He was like that as a player. And he’s a very good human being too. He’ll put the right structures in place.”
The 54-year-old revealed he still keeps in touch with Pochettino, but their conversations never stray into tactics or player selection.
“We talk about life, restaurants, Tottenham days… never about players. I make a point of that,” Friedel said.
Under Fire, but Still Building
Pochettino’s early tenure hasn’t been smooth. The U.S. have endured dispiriting defeats to Switzerland, Turkey, and South Korea, and inconsistent Gold Cup showings haven’t helped. Yet, there are signs of progress — including a morale-boosting 2-0 win over Japan last month.
Friedel, however, insists turbulence is part of the process.
“If there are bumps along the way, that’s normal. Some players fight change, others embrace it. He just has to find the right mix. The U.S. will perform really well at the 2026 World Cup — but win it? Not yet. We have to be honest.”
Building a Winning Mentality
For Friedel, Pochettino’s biggest mission isn’t just winning matches — it’s changing the American football mentality.
“Without promotion or relegation, we don’t have that ‘do or die’ edge like in Europe or South America. Mauricio was brought in to toughen that mindset,” Friedel explained.
“It’s a long-term project. Maybe it won’t mean a semifinal in 2026, but ten years from now, that mentality shift could make a huge difference.”
“This Generation Has It Tougher”
Friedel also defended today’s players — including Christian Pulisic, Gio Reyna, and Tim Weah — from constant social media scrutiny.
“People say they’re softer, but it’s not that simple. We didn’t have social media. One mistake today follows a player everywhere — online, for days. It’s mentally draining.”
He admitted that many stars from his generation “wouldn’t survive that level of public pressure.”
The Bigger Picture
Despite criticism, Friedel remains optimistic.
“This team is far more technical than we ever were in ’94 or ’02,” he said. “And I have no doubt they’ll put on good performances at the World Cup.”
His final message to the young squad? Savor the moment.
“The World Cup comes and goes in a flash. Learn as much as you can while you’re there — so next time, you’re better prepared.”
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