With the USMNT’s massive showdown against Panama in the Concacaf Nations League just over a month away, head coach Mauricio Pochettino and his trusted staff are working overtime to scout the best American talent — from the Premier League to the Bundesliga. And Atlanta soccer fans, this journey has plenty of local ties to cheer for!
Two weeks ago, Pochettino’s assistants launched their European scouting tour. Jesús Perez, his right-hand man, checked in on Premier League standouts Tyler Adams (Bournemouth), Antonee Robinson (Fulham), and Crystal Palace duo Chris Richards and Matt Turner. Fun fact for Atlanta United diehards: Richards, a Birmingham, Alabama native, once starred for Atlanta United’s academy before launching his European career!
Meanwhile, assistant Miguel D’Agostino visited Coventry City (Haji Wright), Middlesbrough (Aidan Morris), and Leeds United (Brenden Aaronson), catching up with them at their club facilities. Goalkeeper coach Toni Jiménez took a close look at Turner during a Crystal Palace session.
This worldwide search for talent is all about one thing: The road to the 2026 World Cup on home soil. With Nations League glory and crucial March matchups ahead, Pochettino is determined to build the strongest possible squad. But his focus isn’t just on Europe. With the 2025 MLS season kicking off this week, domestic players — including potential stars from Atlanta United — have a golden opportunity to catch his eye.
USMNT veterans Weston McKennie and Tim Weah, both likely starters under Pochettino, are expected to miss the 2025 Gold Cup due to Juventus’s Club World Cup commitments. That means the door is wide open for rising stars to step up — and Atlanta’s soccer scene will be watching closely.
The scouting push isn’t just about evaluating players — it’s about relationships. Under former coach Gregg Berhalter, USMNT staff worked closely with clubs overseas, sharing medical insights and creating content together. That collaboration has only grown stronger under Pochettino, with clubs like Fulham and AC Milan deepening ties with U.S. Soccer.
Pochettino, known for his European coaching pedigree with PSG, Tottenham, and Chelsea, brings unmatched connections to the table. His team is leveraging those relationships to leave no stone unturned in the search for American talent.
“We’re building relationships and tracking potential stars,” Pochettino said. “This is about the future — finding players who can rise to the occasion.”
For Atlanta fans, the excitement is building. Could a new hometown hero emerge in time for the 2026 World Cup? Stay tuned, because Pochettino’s search for the next American star is in full swing — and Atlanta is ready to cheer them on every step of the way.
