Pochettino Issues Firm 'Shut Up' Directive to USMNT Over World Cup Pricing Furore
Mauricio Pochettino, the head coach of the United States men's national football team, has delivered a blunt message to his squad regarding the escalating controversy surrounding ticket prices for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Argentine manager has explicitly instructed his players to cease public commentary on the matter and concentrate exclusively on their sporting duties.
Player Criticism Sparks Managerial Intervention
The issue of exorbitant ticket costs for the upcoming tournament, co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, has ignited significant anger among football supporters globally. Several USMNT players have voiced their discontent, with Marseille winger Timothy Weah being particularly vocal. The New York-born forward, son of former Ballon d'Or winner George Weah, recently told French publication Le Dauphiné that the prices were "too expensive" and expressed disappointment, stating "football should still be enjoyed by everyone."
However, Pochettino, appointed in 2024, has moved decisively to quell this player-led criticism. Speaking from FIFA World Cup headquarters in Florida, he made his position unequivocally clear during a press conference.
"Focus on the Pitch," Insists US Coach
"First of all, I think players need to talk on the pitch, playing football, not outside of the [pitch]," Pochettino asserted, according to reports from The Athletic. He emphasised that evaluating ticket pricing was "not his duty" nor that of his players. "My duty is to prepare the team, the U.S. men's national team, in the best way to perform," he added.
The manager further distanced the team from the political and commercial dimensions of the tournament. "We are not politicians. We are sport people that only we can talk about our job," Pochettino stated. He redirected responsibility firmly towards FIFA, the world governing body, suggesting that any explanations regarding pricing should come directly from them. "It is their responsibility to explain why. But it's not up to us to provide our opinion."
Deference to FIFA and Infantino Leadership
Pochettino's comments also showcased a notable deference to FIFA and its president, Gianni Infantino. "We have the organisation that is over [the US Soccer Federation], that is FIFA, that is doing an amazing job around the world uniting people," the coach remarked. He encouraged the media to pose questions directly to FIFA, expressing confidence they would receive "a very good answer."
This stance aligns with the close relationship between Infantino and former US President Donald Trump. Pochettino concluded by urging trust in the global football authority: "We need to be focused on the sports side, and trust in the organisation that is in charge of football around the world, that they are going to do the right things."
Background of the Ticket Price Controversy
The 2026 World Cup ticket pricing structure has been a source of intense debate since its announcement. FIFA recently reported receiving over 500 million requests during an initial application window that closed on January 13, underscoring the massive demand but also highlighting concerns about affordability and accessibility for ordinary fans.
Timothy Weah, who scored the opening goal for the USA at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and is a contender for a starting role in 2026, had lamented that the tournament risked becoming "more of a show" due to the high costs. Pochettino's intervention now places a firm gag order on such sentiments from within the American camp, redirecting all energy towards on-field preparation as the host nation builds towards the monumental event.
