Pochettino: "Having Messi Here Is a Privilege for the United States"

Mauricio Pochettino, the coach of the United States national football team, expressed his admiration for Lionel Messi’s presence in the MLS, describing it as a significant privilege for the country. Following the 3-1 victory over Venezuela in a friendly match at the Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where Messi’s Inter Miami plays its home games, Pochettino highlighted the monumental impact of having the global icon in the league.

"This is an incredible project. Miami and MLS are incredibly lucky to have Leo Messi. It’s something amazing; he is the number one in the world and has won eight Ballon d'Ors. Watching him play is a spectacle. Having him here is a privilege for the United States," Pochettino said during the post-match press conference.

Miami’s Efforts and the Future of Soccer in the U.S.

Pochettino also praised the efforts of Miami and the MLS to bring Messi to the U.S., emphasizing the strategic vision behind the signing. He also sent a message of appreciation to David Beckham, one of the co-owners of Inter Miami, for his contributions to the club's success and for the quality of the facilities.

As for the future of soccer in the U.S., Pochettino reflected on the competition the sport faces from other popular American sports, such as American football, basketball, baseball, and ice hockey. He acknowledged that while these sports dominate, the massive population in the U.S. presents a vast opportunity for soccer’s growth.

Pochettino’s Vision for Soccer in the U.S.

"The challenge of competing with American football, basketball, baseball, and ice hockey is significant. This doesn’t happen in other countries. But with 300 million people, there’s a huge opportunity where soccer can find a massive audience," Pochettino explained. "We are trying to accelerate that process," he added.

Key Points from Pochettino's Comments

• Messi's Impact: Pochettino called Messi's presence in the U.S. a "privilege" and a major boost for the country’s soccer scene.
• Miami’s Efforts: He commended the work of Inter Miami and the MLS for bringing Messi to the U.S. and the quality of their facilities.
• David Beckham’s Role: Pochettino sent his regards to Beckham for the success of the Inter Miami project.
• Challenges in U.S. Sports: Pochettino acknowledged the strong competition from other sports but emphasized the opportunity for soccer's growth in a country of 300 million people.
• Soccer’s Future: Pochettino is focused on accelerating soccer's development and expanding its fan base in the U.S.