USMNT Coach Faces Tough Decisions Ahead of Gold Cup

CHICAGO, Ill. — With the 2025 Gold Cup approaching, U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) coach Mauricio Pochettino is grappling with tough choices regarding player selection and load management. The tournament begins on June 15, just over a year before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which the U.S. co-hosts with Canada and Mexico.

Pochettino’s dilemma is a balancing act between competing short-term goals and long-term player health. Following disappointing performances at the Concacaf Nations League finals where the team lost to Canada and Panama, the coach faces scrutiny over his leadership.

Star players like Christian Pulisic and Antonee Robinson have logged extensive minutes this season, raising concerns about fatigue. Pulisic, for example, has played nearly 3,900 minutes across club and international matches this season, while Robinson’s total stands around 3,370. Both players have traveled extensively for international duties, adding to their fatigue.

The coach needs to weigh the urgency of performing well in the Gold Cup against the risk of overburdening key players. Pulisic has endured injury issues this season, leading many to wonder if resting him for the tournament could benefit his performance for club and country in the long run.

In his recent comments, Pochettino spoke about carefully selecting players based on their mentality and game readiness, underscoring the importance of having ‘the right characters’ on the field.

While some argue for resting star players to manage their fatigue, Pochettino also understands the need for a strong showing at the Gold Cup to build team confidence and fan support.

Amid a busy schedule, fans remain hopeful that Pochettino can navigate these challenges effectively. As the tournament nears, the tension grows around who will don the USMNT jersey in pursuit of glory.