TAMPA, Fla. – Mauricio Pochettino made it clear on Monday that Marcelo Bielsa is not merely a friend, but a significant influence in his life and career. The head coach of the U.S. national team expressed his deep admiration for Bielsa, who played a pivotal role in Pochettino’s development as both a player and a manager.
“First of all, my relationship with (Bielsa), he is not like my friend,” Pochettino stated with a smile. “He is a person that was really important when I was young, when I started to play football when I was 13 years old, 14 years old at Newell’s (Old Boys). My admiration and my respect for him are massive.” He considers Bielsa a hero, having referred to him as his “football father.”
Bielsa’s genius is well-established. Known for his unique tactical philosophies, he has introduced groundbreaking methodologies to the game, such as man-marking and an aggressive high press that have become cornerstones of modern football. On Tuesday night, Pochettino will have the opportunity to match wits with his mentor as the U.S. team faces Uruguay, a challenge that comes with significant implications despite being a friendly.
Pochettino first encountered Bielsa when he was just 18 and played professionally for Newell’s Old Boys, under Bielsa’s tutelage. Their time together saw Pochettino earn two league titles before moving on to Espanyol in Spain, with all his senior caps for Argentina also coming under Bielsa’s management.
During the matchup, Pochettino will observe Bielsa in his typical analytical posture on the sidelines, likely seated atop a cooler, intently studying the game. Pochettino explained the nature of communication between them, indicating that Bielsa usually initiates pleasantries, and it is a matter of waiting for him to reach out.
Their history isn’t limited to Pochettino’s playing days; he and Bielsa have faced off as coaches as well. Pochettino’s managerial debut at Espanyol in 2009 saw him going up against Bielsa’s Athletic Bilbao between 2011 and 2013, resulting in two thrilling 3-3 draws and a 2-1 win for Espanyol, with the coaching dynamics becoming a popular narrative in Spain and Argentina.
As both coaches prepare for their fourth competitive encounter, Bielsa, now leading Uruguay, has been tasked with reviving the team after a disappointing World Cup performance and mixed results in World Cup qualifying. Pochettino, on the other hand, has also faced his own challenges with the U.S. team but has recently found a rhythm, remaining unbeaten in four matches. This includes a spirited performance against Paraguay, which has fostered optimism as they prepare to face Uruguay.
“Bielsa represents everything the previous era lacked,” Pochettino remarked, acknowledging the difficulties that lie ahead. The U.S. is learning and growing under his guidance, focusing on a philosophy that prioritizes player protection and tactical awareness.
While the stakes for Tuesday’s match might not involve points, the encounter is still critical for both sides. As Pochettino approaches the game, he feels a mix of passion and gratitude towards Bielsa, recognizing the substantial role he has played in shaping his own journey in football. “He inspired me to keep pushing, to keep trying to be a coach,” Pochettino reflected, emphasizing the importance of this match-up for him personally.