Mauricio Pochettino defended his decision to notify players omitted from the U.S. men's national soccer team World Cup squad via email [1].
The communication method has sparked criticism regarding the manager's approach to player relations during a high-stakes tournament cycle. Because the World Cup is the pinnacle of a player's career, the manner in which cuts are delivered often serves as a proxy for the team's internal culture and leadership style.
During a press conference in New York on Tuesday evening, Pochettino addressed the backlash over his choice to avoid phone calls [2, 3]. He confirmed that he used email to inform the athletes who would not be part of the final 26-man squad [1].
"We made a 26-man squad and I let the players know the decision via email," Pochettino said [1].
The manager explained that this method was a deliberate choice to maintain efficiency and avoid the emotional weight of extended discussions. He suggested that a written message is more effective than a verbal exchange when delivering negative news to professional athletes.
"I think it's better to send an email than to call and have a long conversation," Pochettino said [4].
When pressed further on the lack of personal outreach, the manager remained firm. He indicated that he did not wish to engage in the subsequent debates or appeals that often follow a roster announcement.
"I don't want to hear nothing," Pochettino said [5].
The decision to use digital communication for the cuts comes as the team prepares for the tournament. The move marks a departure from traditional coaching norms where managers typically call players personally to explain their exclusion from a major tournament roster.
“"I think it's better to send an email than to call and have a long conversation."”
Pochettino's preference for email over phone calls suggests a management style focused on boundary-setting and efficiency over traditional interpersonal diplomacy. In the high-pressure environment of the World Cup, this approach may either streamline the team's focus or create friction with players who expect a more personal touch from their leadership.
