Mauricio Pochettino, the US men's national team manager, has told players to focus on football and avoid commenting on issues such as World Cup ticket prices. The Argentine made the remarks after USMNT winger Tim Weah expressed disappointment that high ticket costs would exclude many fans from attending matches in the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the US, Mexico and Canada.
Speaking during a virtual press conference, Pochettino said: 'I think players need to talk on the pitch, playing football, not outside. It is not his duty to evaluate the price of the ticket. We are not politicians. We are sport people that only we can talk about our job.' The comments have been criticised as out of touch, given that Weah was discussing a matter directly related to football and fan access.
Pochettino also defended FIFA, calling the governing body 'an amazing job around the world uniting people' and saying it was not for players to judge its decisions. This stance contrasts with recent efforts by the USMNT to encourage players to speak out on social issues, including the 'Be The Change' campaign supported by Pochettino's predecessor, Gregg Berhalter.
Weah, who plays for Olympique Marseille, had told French media: 'I am just a bit disappointed by the ticket prices. Lots of real fans will miss matches. It is too expensive. Football should still be enjoyed by everyone.' The 25-year-old has 47 caps for the US and is the son of former Liberian President George Weah.
The cost of attending World Cup matches in the US has become a contentious issue, with parking at the Los Angeles venue where the US will play two group games costing up to $300, according to FIFA. Critics argue that Pochettino's comments ignore the financial barriers facing many supporters.
