USA Coach Pochettino Limits Player Availability Amid Four-Game Home Losing Streak

United States men's head coach Mauricio Pochettino has emphasized that players cannot dictate their availability for the national team, responding to Christian Pulisic's desire to play in two pre-CONCACAF Gold Cup friendlies despite wanting rest for the tournament. Pulisic offered to participate in friendlies against Turkey and Switzerland but was excluded by Pochettino, who prioritized a consistent squad ahead of the Gold Cup. Although Pulisic respected the decision, he expressed confusion over it. Pochettino stated that it is his responsibility to decide squad selections and that players must adhere to the coaching staff's plans rather than dictate them. The USA suffered defeats in both friendlies, extending a losing streak to four games, the first such streak on home soil since 1988. Pulisic remains part of the Gold Cup squad, and Pochettino affirmed that communication with players is important, but the coach’s authority on team decisions is final.