Mauricio Pochettino has called for patience as he builds his USMNT project, following a 2-0 win against Japan. He wants criticism directed at him, not the players, and emphasizes the importance of the process and team development.
Mauricio Pochettino, the manager of the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT), has called for patience and understanding as he continues to build his vision for the squad, following a crucial 2-0 victory over Japan in a recent international friendly. The win, secured at Lower.com Field, provided a much-needed boost after a challenging run of form that saw the team go seven games without a win, including a disappointing defeat to South Korea.
Goals from Alex Zendejas and Folarin Balogun propelled the USMNT to victory, ending their winless streak and offering a glimpse of progress under Pochettino’s leadership. The team’s dominant performance, reflected in an expected goals (xG) total of 1.97 compared to Japan’s 1.08, showcased their growing attacking prowess and tactical understanding.
The USMNT boasts an impressive record in Columbus, Ohio, having won 11 of their 15 matches played in the city (73.3%), making it their most successful venue with 12 or more games played. This strong home advantage provides a solid foundation for Pochettino’s project.
Defended The Fortress! #USMNT x Allstate pic.twitter.com/pwKsRyO8rF
— U.S. Soccer Men’s National Team (@USMNT) September 10, 2025
However, Pochettino remains focused on the long-term development of the team, emphasizing the need for a measured approach and shielding his players from undue criticism. “I prefer that people criticize me, but don’t touch the players,” Pochettino stated emphatically. “I hope in the future, criticize me, criticize me, but let the player play free, go and perform.”
He acknowledged the importance of constructive feedback, believing that different perspectives can contribute to the team’s improvement. “I know when you criticize or make an opinion, because sometimes you can observe something different from different perspectives. I know this is good for us to see and to read. Keep going in this way, because that makes us better,” he added.
Pochettino stressed the time required for players and staff to fully integrate and adapt to each other’s styles. “We’ve needed time because the players need to know us, the staff need to know us, we need to adapt to them, we need to adapt to the player. We need to know the players, that is a big picture that we talk [about], but sometimes people want the result tomorrow, and why you don’t call this [player] or call another.”
He reiterated that the process is paramount, prioritizing the development of belief and a strong working relationship within the squad. “The most important is the process. The most important today, [is it about] winning or losing? No, it’s about the process. It’s about the player really believing in what we are doing. That they respect us, how we respect them. We are capable of building that relationship. Give time to the process and the process is going to work, for sure.”
Alex Zendejas, who scored a stunning volley to open the scoring against Japan, has significantly enhanced his chances of inclusion in next year’s World Cup squad. Pochettino admitted that Zendejas’ performance has created a dilemma in team selection. “We are pleased because he, with his performance, makes us doubt [our roster ideas],” Pochettino said. “With this type of display, he’s in the race for the roster of the World Cup.”
Folarin Balogun also made a notable impact, scoring his sixth international goal and becoming the 17th different player to find the net under Pochettino’s guidance in 18 games. His goal underscored his growing importance to the team.
10 – Folarin Balogun has been directly involved in a goal in 10 of his 16 career #USMNT starts. Productive. pic.twitter.com/mxpoj6r08L
— OptaJack (@OptaJack) September 10, 2025
Balogun echoed Pochettino’s sentiments, emphasizing the need for patience and trust in the manager’s vision. “We’re building something big here. He’s obviously a top coach and it takes time, and he tried to emphasise that to us to be patient,” Balogun said. “Confidence, I think it’s really important. The results are at the end of the day the sort of industry we’re in.”
The victory over Japan represents a step forward for the USMNT under Pochettino, but the manager remains steadfast in his commitment to a long-term project, urging fans and critics alike to allow the team the time and space to develop and reach its full potential. The focus remains firmly on building a cohesive and competitive squad capable of achieving success on the world stage.
