sports
Missing a World Cup, over email? Pochettino defends communication style with tough decisions behind him
The US head coach said there was no point in speaking to players directly, but some former US World Cup cuts disagree
TL;DR
- USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino announced the 26-player roster for the 2026 World Cup, with most selections already leaked prior to the official announcement.
- Pochettino's decision to inform players who did not make the cut via email, rather than a phone call or in-person meeting, has generated significant debate.
- Former USMNT players Landon Donovan and Herculez Gomez have expressed differing opinions, with Gomez calling the email approach 'diabolical' and referencing more personal communication from previous coaches like Jürgen Klinsmann and Bob Bradley.
- Pochettino defended his method, stating that explaining exclusions would be disingenuous and that direct communication after a decision has been made is pointless, drawing parallels to his own experiences being sacked from coaching positions.
- The debate continues regarding the most appropriate way to deliver difficult news to professional athletes, balancing the coach's perspective with player welfare and respect.