Pochettino faces $50m World Cup challenge to instil fight in USMNT

Mauricio Pochettino has set his sights on a historic run with the United States Men's National Team at the 2026 World Cup, with a $50 million prize awaiting the champions. The former Tottenham and Chelsea manager, who took over the USMNT in 2023, is under pressure to deliver beyond the Round of 16, a stage the team has not surpassed since 1930.

Ramos backs Pochettino to inspire

Former USMNT star Tab Ramos, who played in three World Cups, told talkSPORT that Pochettino's influence will be measured by how far the team advances. 'Can we make it to not only the quarterfinal, but can we potentially go to a semifinal? That hasn't been done since 1930,' Ramos said. He added that the squad, featuring Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, Chris Richards, Antonee Robinson, and Gio Reyna, should be favored to top their group.

The USMNT begins their World Cup campaign against Paraguay at Los Angeles Stadium. Pochettino's contract expires after the tournament, and success could pave the way for a return to Premier League or European football, according to reports.