Pochettino Reflects on Premier League Affection and National Team Aspirations

Mauricio Pochettino, head coach of the United States men’s national soccer team, has candidly shared his sentiments about missing the Premier League and his aspirations to return to English football in the future.

Since his appointment in September 2024, following his departure from Chelsea, Pochettino has been focused on leading the U.S. team in the upcoming 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. In an interview with the BBC, he stated, “The Premier League is the best league in the world. While I am enjoying my time in America, I do think about returning to the Premier League one day, as it is the most competitive league.”

Pochettino gained prominence during his successful tenure at Tottenham Hotspur, where he led the team to the Champions League final and contended for two Premier League titles. Reflecting on his time there, he remarked, “We were so close at Tottenham; we nearly achieved the Champions League and Premier League titles. That remains something I aspire to accomplish.”

His departure from Spurs came about unexpectedly when longtime chairman Daniel Levy exited the role on September 4, ending a 24-year tenure that significantly shaped the club’s trajectory. Pochettino expressed his surprise at Levy’s exit, noting, “His legacy is remarkable, and he played a pivotal role in my management journey at one of the best clubs in the world, with an incredible fanbase.”

The Argentine coach also spoke about the impact of fellow countryman Lionel Messi, who joined Inter Miami in 2023. Pochettino highlighted how Messi’s presence in Major League Soccer has inspired American youth to engage with soccer, stating, “Players like Messi are motivating kids to consider soccer alongside basketball, American football, and baseball.”

As he prepares for the national team’s participation in the World Cup, Pochettino is dedicated to advancing soccer’s growth in the United States. He remarked, “The motivation is immense. While some may feel uncertain about American players’ understanding of soccer culture, I believe it is crucial to convey the universal language of football to them. After a year, I see significant progress as we work on building a cohesive understanding that transcends nationality and focuses on the competitive spirit required to win.”