Sports Desk: Head coach Mauricio Pochettino has named veteran defender Tim Ream as the captain of the United States, the co-hosts of the upcoming World Cup.
Pochettino said the 38-year-old centre-back’s experience and leadership qualities made him a natural choice for the role. Ream played for Fulham and Bolton Wanderers in England for more than a decade.
“He was my first captain when I took over. I’m very grateful that he’s with us. It’s a privilege to have a player of his personality and character in the team. He helps the younger players and shows them the way.”
Ream has captained the United States in 16 of 23 matches under Pochettino since taking charge in September 2024. He has been an experienced and important bridge for the coach in the dressing room.
But Pochettino has made it clear that being the captain does not guarantee a place in the starting XI for the team. If he plays in the World Cup, he will become the oldest player in the history of the United States at the World Cup.
Ream said, “Leading your country at the World Cup is more than a dream come true. It is the highest honor.”
The United States will face Paraguay in their first match in Los Angeles on June 12. Group D also includes Australia and Turkey.
As co-hosts, the United States will play all of its matches on home soil and are considered one of the favorites to advance from a tough but relatively balanced group.
Pochettino has previously stated his goal of winning the World Cup. However, with strong teams such as France, Spain and his native Argentina in the mix, that would be a major setback. “The entire structure of the United States national team is built in such a way that the team can win the World Cup, or at least be among the best,” Pochettino said. His current contract expires after the World Cup, but no questions were asked at the press conference about rumours of his possible talks with Italian club AC Milan.
Views: 1
