“We need to believe we can win the World Cup”—And just like that, Mauricio Pochettino painted the rosy picture of USMNT lifting the Golden Trophy. Even though it’s a dream that many deem nearly impossible, the Argentinian tactician remains adamant about doing so. Even American icon Landon Donovan also echoes Pochettino’s claims, insisting the Star and Stripes can surely go on a ‘historical run’ in the 2026 World Cup. Sure, it’s easier said than done, even though, one may agree that confidence is what the USMNT needs the most. However, in the eyes of Donovan, it’s rather a question of quality and consistency.

“Well, it’s not a stretch to say ‘could,’” said the San Diego Waves boss on Alexi Lalas’ State of the Union podcast. “Do we have good enough players right now to go on a magical run through 7 games and win? That’s not a stretch.” Since the American boys have played and even defeated some of the best teams in the world, Donovan doesn’t believe that the USA winning the WC is a stretch. However, he is rather interested to see if Christian Pulisic and Co. have the ability to become a real contending side that is ready to compete ‘realistically‘ on such a prestigious stage of the beautiful game.

Donovan gave an example of teams like France and Spain. Even though both of these European sides often endure a time off the track, they are still considered favorites to lift any major tournament. However, in the case of USMNT, they don’t like that way yet. This is the kind of change that the former striker wants the Golden Generation to bring within them. “Could we go on a magical, historical run? Yes, I think we could. We do have that much quality. But we’re not consistently competing at the top end like these other countries…So we’re not in that echelon yet,” added Landon, while underlining the recent Copa America upset.

He further urged the team to understand the gravity of the fact that they didn’t get out of a group that had Bolivia and Panama, except for Uruguay. While Donovan didn’t hesitate in giving the USMNT a reality check, the crux of his remarks is his belief that they can win the World Cup. So does Mr. Pochettino have any plans for the same? Let’s find out.

Mauricio Pochettino sends a warning to USMNT players and fans over World Cup expectations!

The first training session hasn’t even started, but Mauricio Pochettino is already getting down to business, delivering a message not only to the US Soccer players but also to their passionate supporters. “I don’t want to be nice with the fans, I don’t want to be nice with the players. I think we need to dream that we are going to win the World Cup. I think it’s a great opportunity to think big. That is why we are here eh?” he said.

In a similar discussion with Men in Blazers, the former Tottenham manager made it clear that he’s leaving no stone unturned in preparing the American squad for the challenges ahead under his leadership. There’s no such thing as a good-place finish as winning the World Cup is the only thing that constitutes to be a successful World Cup campaign in his dictionary. Indeed, exciting times are ahead!