“I also missed out on the World Cup”: Pochettino speaks on Diego Luna, the big absentee from the USA squad

U.S. Men's National Team coach Mauricio Pochettino has addressed the controversial decision to leave midfielder Diego Luna off the squad for the 2026 World Cup. The omission of the 22-year-old Real Salt Lake player has sparked debate among fans and analysts, particularly given the team's stated goal of balancing experience with youth.

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The decision final was not based solely on individual talent, but on balance, roles and collective function. You don't always choose the best names; you choose the right team.

Pochettino, speaking to the Los Angeles Times, emphasized that the final selection was not solely based on individual talent. "The decision final was not based solely on individual talent, but on balance, roles and collective function," he stated. "You don't always choose the best names; you choose the right team."

The coach expressed personal understanding of the disappointment associated with missing a World Cup. He recalled his own experience being excluded from the 1998 tournament as a player. "I have lived that pain. I perfectly understand the disappointment and frustration of those not chosen," Pochettino said, adding, "I also suffered being left out of a World Cup."

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I have lived that pain. I perfectly understand the disappointment and frustration of those not chosen.

While Luna was a significant player during Pochettino's tenure, the coach maintained that the squad composition aimed for optimal team cohesion. The U.S. team will host the tournament and is grouped with Paraguay, Australia, and Turkey. The selection process was described as one of the most taxing for Pochettino and his staff.

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I also suffered being left out of a World Cup.