USMNT Head Coach Pochettino Stresses Focus On Performance Over Ticket Pricing

USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino has drawn a firm line between the responsibilities of his team and the ongoing debate over World Cup ticket prices, following criticism from Timothy Weah regarding the affordability of attending the tournament.

Pochettino Prioritizes On-Field Performance

During a recent press conference, Pochettino addressed the controversy sparked by USMNT winger Timothy Weah, who publicly criticized FIFA’s high ticket prices for the upcoming World Cup. Weah argued that soaring costs, with some tickets reportedly reaching $8,680 and parking fees as high as $175, risked excluding loyal football fans from the experience. Despite Weah’s concerns, Pochettino made clear that the USMNT’s role is strictly sporting.

“Players should speak on the pitch, not outside of it,” Pochettino asserted. “It is not our duty to evaluate ticket prices. My job is to prepare the U.S. Men’s National Team to perform at the highest level. We are not politicians, and it’s not for us to comment on FIFA’s decisions. If FIFA makes a choice, it is their responsibility to explain it, not ours.”

World Cup Ticket Pricing Debate Intensifies

The ticket pricing debate has gained momentum, with Weah’s comments echoing widespread frustrations among supporters. In an interview with Le Dauphiné, Weah lamented, “It is too expensive. Football should be enjoyed by everyone, as it’s the world’s most popular sport. I’m disappointed. Many real fans will miss matches.”

FIFA president Gianni Infantino responded by defending the organization’s pricing model, citing unprecedented demand, with over 500 million ticket requests reported. Infantino acknowledged that prices could climb even higher on the secondary market, but maintained that the process is necessary to accommodate such levels of interest.

Pochettino Maintains Clear Boundaries

Pochettino, however, remains steadfast in his belief that discussions around ticketing lie outside the scope of the USMNT’s responsibilities. “If you want answers about ticket pricing, the media should ask FIFA directly. Our only focus is the sports side and trusting that the global football authorities are making the right decisions,” he insisted.

The head coach also emphasized that the opinions of federation officials might be appropriate, but as the leader of the national team, he and his players must prioritize preparation and execution on the field. “Our responsibility is to play and perform. That is where our influence ends,” Pochettino reiterated.

USMNT’s Immediate Focus: World Cup Preparation

Even as the ticket price controversy dominates headlines, Pochettino is looking ahead to a critical period for his squad. March brings high-profile friendlies against Belgium and Portugal, key opportunities to finalize the USMNT roster for the World Cup. The head coach underlined the importance of these matches, noting that strong performances could define the fate of several players vying for a spot in the final squad.

“This is a pivotal moment for us,” Pochettino said. “We need to focus all our energy on preparation and performance. Our supporters expect us to represent the nation with pride and determination.”

Opinion: A Clear Separation of Roles Is Needed

While the frustration of fans and players like Tim Weah over World Cup ticket prices is understandable—football is, after all, the people’s game—Pochettino’s stance serves as a reminder of the importance of clear boundaries within football governance. The USMNT’s duty is to deliver on the pitch, leaving organizational matters to governing bodies such as FIFA. Still, it’s crucial that voices like Weah’s spark meaningful conversations that push for greater accessibility in global football. For more news and updates about the USMNT and the World Cup, visit for more news.