Pochettino: Aaronsons Pre

CHICAGO – The coach of the United States men’s national soccer team, Mauricio Pochettino, has shared that midfielder Brenden Aaronson’s wedding during their pre-World Cup training camp has positively affected the entire team, a stance that might not have been embraced by some previous coaches.

Aaronson’s wedding to his longtime girlfriend, Milana D’Ambra, was planned for May 30 in New Jersey, initially set because he believed that the World Cup training camp would not commence until June 1.

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When the start date for the training camp was moved up, Aaronson found himself in a challenging situation. However, when he approached Pochettino about possibly rescheduling his wedding, the coach encouraged him to proceed as planned and also included him in the World Cup roster.

“It’s a question that, as human beings, is always important to us, and I completely understand that players need to plan their lives and families,” Pochettino stated. “I know the type of player he is—professional—and this is something to celebrate with teammates. It provides energy to the team.”

Pochettino noted that such a request would not have been well-received by coaches from previous generations.

“In the past, when I was a player, it was impossible,” he reflected. “And for my coaches, it was also impossible. They didn’t care about you or your family, which is true. Society has evolved since then.”

For Pochettino, who got married at 22, this evolution signifies a shift in focus to the players’ well-being.

“The goal is to foster more commitment, enthusiasm, and energy from players,” he explained. “Today, being a leader is different than it used to be. Leadership now requires a more humane approach. I believe everyone involved was happy, and that’s what matters.”

Aaronson has expressed gratitude for Pochettino’s understanding in this matter.

“Having an open line of communication with the coach is great,” Aaronson shared. “He’s very approachable and understands the challenges of being a footballer. It made the conversation really easy.”

Pochettino added, “We are evolving with all aspects of football, including how we manage and treat individuals.”

Aaronson rejoined the team shortly after his wedding in South Jersey and is set to play in Chicago on Saturday as the Americans take on Germany in their final pre-World Cup match.