The upcoming 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted in the United States, is a recurring topic, as Pochettino's appointment is viewed as a pivotal step in the USMNT's preparation for the tournament.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino's advice to MLS owners to "think big and bold" ahead of the 2026 World Cup in the United States was a key topic covered in the episode.
The episode looks ahead to Canada hosting the 2026 World Cup and the preparation and expectations for the national team leading up to the tournament.
The upcoming 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, is highlighted as a significant opportunity for the growth of soccer in the U.S., and the national team's preparedness for this event is discussed.
The upcoming 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the United States, is a significant factor in Pochettino's hiring and the discussions surrounding the U.S. men's national team's preparations and expectations.
Hosting the 2026 World Cup is a major backdrop, adding urgency to improving the US team under Pochettino.
The upcoming 2026 World Cup is a recurring theme throughout the podcast episodes, as it represents a significant opportunity for the U.S. Men's National Soccer Team (USMNT) to compete at the highest level on home soil and potentially drive increased interest and growth in soccer across the United States.
The episodes discuss the hiring of Mauricio Pochettino as the new USMNT head coach, with the goal of preparing the team for a strong performance in the 2026 World Cup. Pochettino's coaching philosophy, tactics, and the challenges he may face in implementing his vision are analyzed, with the 2026 tournament serving as the primary backdrop and motivation for his appointment.
In addition to the USMNT, the episodes also explore the preparations and expectations of other national teams, such as Canada, that will be participating in the 2026 World Cup. The significance of the tournament for the development of soccer in North America and the potential impact on fan engagement and sponsorship opportunities are also discussed.