USA national football team head coach Mauricio Pochettino defended his decision not to personally contact players who were not included in the final squad for the 2026 World Cup.
Idman.Biz reports that the Argentinian specialist responded to criticism at a press conference after announcing the 26-man squad. The absence of players such as Diego Luna, Tanner Tessmann, and Aidan Morris from the USA squad has caused controversy.
Pochettino stated that these decisions were emotionally difficult. He emphasized that the situation regarding the players who were left out of their World Cup dream was not easy.
"These were very difficult decisions, and we are grateful to all the players who were part of this journey," said the head coach.
The specialist also said that he did not think it was right to focus on the players who were not included in the squad. In his opinion, this could be seen as disrespect to the players who will represent the USA at the World Cup.
Pochettino stated that all attention is now focused on the upcoming tournament. He said his team will take to the field to make USA fans and the country proud.