Pochettino Restores USMNT Toughness, Say Donovan and Howard

Pochettino’s Impact: USMNT Toughness Returns

USMNT toughness has taken center stage as icons Landon Donovan and Tim Howard credit Mauricio Pochettino for reigniting the squad’s fighting spirit and unity. In recent months, the United States Men’s National Team has exhibited a renewed willingness to scrap, defend one another, and press with relentless energy—a transformation both former stars trace back to Pochettino’s influence.

Gold Cup Sparked a Shift in Mentality

Howard, speaking on the Unfiltered Soccer podcast, identified the last Gold Cup as the pivotal moment for USMNT toughness. Despite missing key stars during the tournament, the squad showcased impressive grit and determination. “I have no questions about this team, this group,” Howard said. “We saw a lot of fight in the Gold Cup, and then when the big names like Chris Richards and Christian Pulisic returned, they brought that same fight back. You see it now in every camp.”

Howard believes that the players who stepped up during the Gold Cup set a new competitive standard. Pochettino, recognizing this blend of resilience and work ethic, built on that foundation. “My educated guess is that the Gold Cup team set a standard that Poch liked, and maybe he lit that fire,” he explained. “Once he had everyone back, he probably said, ‘This is what I want to see’. And now, the whole team is humming—they’re clicking and together.”

Donovan Applauds Pochettino’s Psychological Mastery

Landon Donovan echoed Howard’s sentiments, highlighting how Pochettino has masterfully handled the mental side of the team’s development. Donovan noted that the summer was particularly turbulent for the USMNT, with the absence of several stars from the Gold Cup raising questions about commitment and unity. Yet, Pochettino navigated these challenges superbly.

“Let’s really give a lot of credit to Pochettino for how he’s managed the mental aspect,” Donovan said. “It was ugly in the summer—there was a lot of criticism and noise. But he’s masterfully put this together, pieced it together. Now, whoever steps on the field presses, runs, and fights. As a fan, I’m loving it.”

Pochettino’s Approach Unifies the Squad

Donovan went further, suggesting that whether by luck or design, Pochettino has fostered an environment where every player buys in. The result is a group unafraid of adversity, embracing every match with intensity and desire. This reflects a marked shift from previous criticisms about the USMNT’s consistency and character.

USMNT Toughness: A Foundation for 2026

The renewed USMNT toughness is more than a passing trend—it is quickly becoming the cornerstone of the team’s identity under Pochettino. This consistent mentality, forged in difficult moments and nurtured by both senior and emerging leaders, provides a crucial foundation as the squad builds toward the 2026 World Cup.

With the world’s biggest tournament drawing near, the ability to maintain high levels of intensity, unity, and fight could be the difference-maker for the USMNT. Pochettino’s role in fostering this collective spirit—and holding all players to the same high standard of commitment—cannot be overstated.

Building Momentum: Consistent Mentality Key

Establishing a competitive edge has been a persistent challenge in previous USMNT cycles. Now, the blend of tactical discipline and emotional investment is visible in almost every performance. The players are pushing each other, defending one another, and taking pride in their work on and off the ball.

Howard and Donovan agree this is Pochettino’s legacy in the making. The team’s transformation is not only about results but also about identity—USMNT toughness is now synonymous with every player who wears the badge.

Opinion: A New Era of Resilience for USMNT

It’s clear that Pochettino has fundamentally altered the mindset of the USMNT. His ability to foster mental strength, unify a diverse group, and demand relentless effort has not only silenced critics but set a new standard for what it means to represent the United States. If this toughness continues, the team will be well-equipped to face the world’s best in 2026. For more news and insights, visit for more news.