On Monday, Mauricio Pochettino officially welcomed his long-time assistant coaches to the United States national team staff, marking his initial day on the field as the successor to Gregg Berhalter.
Jesús Pérez has been designated as the first assistant coach, while Miguel “Miki” D’Agostino takes on the role of assistant coach. Antonio “Toni” Jiménez will serve as the goalkeepers coach, and Sebastiano Pochettino, the head coach’s son, has been appointed as the sports scientist.
Pochettino, who has previously managed Espanyol, Southampton, Tottenham, Paris Saint-Germain, and Chelsea, was appointed by the USSF last month and will lead the team through the 2026 World Cup. During his introductory press conference, Pochettino confirmed that he would be bringing his staff with him.
Editor’s Picks
2 Related
Vincent Cavin, who joined as an assistant coach under Berhalter in December 2023, has departed, as stated by the U.S. Soccer Federation.
Gianni Vio, who was appointed by Berhalter as the set piece coach, remains with the team.
Silvia Tuya Viñas has been brought on board as the strength and conditioning coach, having previously worked with the women’s team at Levante Badalona.
The U.S. began training on Monday and is scheduled to play friendly matches against Panama on Saturday in Austin, Texas, followed by Mexico three days later in Guadalajara.
Berhalter was dismissed in July after the team faced elimination in the first round of the Copa América.
Pochettino Unveils New Coaching Staff for U.S. Men’s National Team Ahead of Friendlies
Overview of Pochettino’s Appointment
In a significant move for the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT), Mauricio Pochettino has officially appointed his coaching staff as he prepares for upcoming friendlies. Known for his tactical acumen and player development skills, Pochettino’s choices reflect a blend of experience and familiarity.
Details of the New Coaching Staff
Under Pochettino’s leadership, the following key appointments have been made:
- Jesús Pérez - First Assistant Coach
- Miguel “Miki” D’Agostino – Assistant Coach
- Antonio “Toni” Jiménez – Goalkeeping Coach
This coaching lineup brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise that Pochettino hopes will enhance the performance of the national team in their upcoming matches.
Why These Appointments Matter
Each member of the coaching staff has a proven track record in football coaching, which is essential for the development of the USMNT. The synergy between Pochettino and his coaching staff is expected to foster a cohesive environment, essential for team dynamics and success.
Jesús Pérez - First Assistant Coach
Jesús Pérez has been a long-time collaborator with Pochettino. His role involves working closely with Pochettino to implement game strategies and training methodologies. Pérez’s understanding of Pochettino’s philosophy will be crucial in translating tactical concepts to players effectively.
Miguel “Miki” D’Agostino – Assistant Coach
Miki D’Agostino brings a fresh perspective to the team with his innovative coaching style. His experience in various leagues across Europe will be invaluable, particularly in adapting training programs to suit the diverse skill sets of American players.
Antonio “Toni” Jiménez – Goalkeeping Coach
Toni Jiménez is renowned for his specialized training for goalkeepers. His expertise will be instrumental in elevating the performance of the USMNT’s goalkeepers, ensuring they are equipped to face top international competition.
Goals for the Upcoming Friendlies
The upcoming friendlies present a unique opportunity for the USMNT to test their strategies and fine-tune their gameplay under Pochettino’s guidance. Goals for these matches include:
- Establishing a clear tactical identity
- Evaluating player performance across different positions
- Building team chemistry with an emphasis on communication and collaboration
- Testing various formations to find the optimal setup
Pochettino’s Coaching Philosophy
Pochettino’s coaching philosophy is centered around high-pressing play, quick transitions, and a strong emphasis on youth development. By instilling these principles within the USMNT, he aims to create a competitive team that can compete on the global stage.
Benefits of the New Coaching Staff
There are several benefits to having a cohesive and experienced coaching staff:
- Unified Vision: A shared coaching philosophy ensures all players receive consistent messaging.
- Enhanced Player Development: Experience from various leagues promotes skill enhancement for all players.
- Increased Tactical Flexibility: Diverse perspectives contribute to adaptable game plans.
Expectations from the USMNT
With Pochettino at the helm, expectations are high. Fans and analysts alike anticipate a refreshed playing style and improved results. The focus will be on developing a team capable of competing in major tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup.
Training Methods and Techniques
Pochettino’s staff is expected to implement several innovative training methods:
- Data-Driven Analysis: Utilizing performance data to tailor training sessions.
- Focus on Physical Conditioning: Enhancing players’ physical attributes to withstand high-pressure situations.
- Small-Sided Games: Encouraging creativity and decision-making in practice.
First-Hand Experiences from Coaching Staff
Insights from the coaching staff can provide valuable perspectives:
| Coach | Experience | Key Insight |
|---|---|---|
| Jesús Pérez | 10+ years with Pochettino | “Building trust is essential for our game plan to work.” |
| Miki D’Agostino | Various European leagues | “Flexibility in tactics keeps opponents guessing.” |
| Toni Jiménez | Goalkeeping specialist | “Goalkeeping is both an art and a science.” |
Conclusion
As the USMNT embarks on this new chapter under Mauricio Pochettino, the coaching staff’s expertise and collaboration will be pivotal in shaping the future of American soccer. Their combined experience and innovative approaches present a promising outlook for the team’s performance in upcoming friendlies and future competitions.
