In this episode, we discuss Mauricio Pochettino's tenure with the USMNT, exploring how his bold approach calling up MLS players and challenging the entitlement of A-listers is shaking up the squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

We go into why his strategy to test depth and foster competitive fire is critical, even if it ruffles feathers among fans.

Plus, we answer a listener's question on climbing the coaching ladder, breaking down the dual paths of mastering your craft and navigating the politics of the American soccer ecosystem.

00:00 Intro

03:13 Conclusions and Reactions to the USMNT September Window

03:41 Sub: USMNT Fans Can’t See Beyond Results

07:58 MLS Win/Win With Pochettino Hiring

10:49 Sub: Fan’s Superficial View of the Player Pool

11:49 Sub: Remember when the fans were Calling USMNT A-Team SOFT

12:35 Sub: Poch is Desperate (and why he’s nice to MLS)

13:59 Explanation for Pochettino Calling MLS Players

17:37 A, B, and C Team Mythology

20:02 Sub: MLS Could Make Potentially Great Players Look Like Shit

21:57 Sub: MLS Holds Players Hostage

23:43 Sub: Poch Preparing MLS Player’s via Experience

25:25 Does Gary Care About the USMNT?

27:30 Sub: Has Pochettino Said the Right Things?

30:21 Sub: Gary’s Hope for USMNT in the World Cup

31:58 Sub: Pochettino Visiting College Football Game

34:39 Did USSF Hire Pochettino Because He Hasn’t wont Trophies?

36:38 Sub: How Fans / Non-Practitioners Think

37:50 Sub: Who Will be The Next USMNT Coach?

39:44 Rant on “Legends”

44:30 Is There a USMNT Style of Play?

47:38 Sub: Pochettino Putting Pressure on the A-listers

48:33 Sub: Does Diego Luna, Agyemang, McGlynn Make the World Cup?

50:25 Coaching Development and Promotions

51:12 Sub: Be a Winner

52:49 Sub: Playing Politics and Networking

53:53 Sub: Win and Play Politics

55:03 Sub: Coaching Licenses and Putting it all Together

57:42 Why It’s Important for Youth Parents and Coaches to Be Informed About the USMNT and Pro Levels

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