'I'm The Head Coach, Not A Mannequin': USA Boss Mauricio Pochettino Defends Christian Pulisic Omission

Last Updated:June 15, 2025, 12:52 IST

Pochettino reiterated that the final decision over the selection of the USMNT boils down to him and that he would set the team up as he deems fit.

United States head coach Mauricio Pochettino encourages his team during the first half of an international friendly soccer game against Turkey, Saturday, June 7, 2025, in East Hartford, Conn. (AP Photo/Mary Schwalm)

Head coach of the USA Men’s Football Team Mauricio Pochettino asserted that he alone would be responsible for picking his squad after his decision to leave star forward Christian Pulisic out of his side for friendly engagements against Turkey and Switzerland.

Pulisic was subjected to multiple harsh reviews from former internationals, including Landon Donovan and Clint Dempsey, after the AC Milan forward requested to be excused from national duty in the CONCACAF Gold Cup. The 26-year-old, however, clarified that he would be available for the exhibition fixtures, but was denied by the Argentine gaffer.

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“He explained why he only wanted to be involved in two games," said Pochettino, addressing the forward’s request.

“And I respect and I understand him. I understand him," the 53-year-old said.

“But I don’t need for him to understand our decision. Because my position is, I am 53 with a lot of experience in football," the tactician asserted.

Pochettino, the former Tottenham and PSG boss, reiterated that the final decision boils down to him and his desire to set up the team as he deems fit.

“If he performs well and he is the best, it’s normal he’s going to have a place in the national team," he added.

“It’s not because a player says, ‘I want to play.’ ‘I want this.’ ‘I want that.’

“I signed my contract with the federation and I am the head coach — I am not a mannequin," the USMNT gaffer said.

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Pulisic opened up on the criticism he received from some notable names in the history of US football as he revealed that it was difficult especially considering some of the players he looked up to growing up.

“It’s tough because I looked up to those guys growing up; some of these guys were my idols, and I respect them so much as players," Pulisic said.

“It’s difficult, especially when some of them privately express support and friendship, then say something different publicly," the former Chelsea player continued.

“You can discuss my performances, but to question my commitment to the national team, in my opinion, that’s way out of line," he opined.

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