Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd Episode: Hour 3 - The US Men's National Team
Release Date: June 11, 2025

The Herd with Colin Cowherd delves deep into the current state of the US Men's National Soccer Team (USMNT), analyzing recent performances, player decisions, and the overarching strategy under the stewardship of coach Mauricio Pochettino. Hosted by Colin Cowherd, with insights from Jason McIntyre and soccer analyst Alexi Lalas, the episode offers a comprehensive examination of where the USMNT stands as they approach the Gold Cup and prepare for the upcoming World Cup on home soil.

1. Recent Performances and Team Criticism

The episode kicks off with a reflection on the USMNT's disappointing 4-0 loss to Switzerland, a result that has reignited debates about the team's capabilities and direction.

Jason McIntyre highlights the narrow talent pool:
"We have a group of five or six elite players, all overseas playing well, but our talent pool isn't as deep as countries like the Netherlands, Colombia, or Spain. Last night's loss was a wake-up call." [03:38]

Alexi Lalas expresses concern over the team's performance and commitment:
"This is the U.S. men's National Team that is looked upon with criticism and apathy. Not appearing for the Gold Cup is a bad look, especially a year before a home World Cup." [05:02]

2. Christian Pulisic’s Decision to Skip the Gold Cup

A significant portion of the discussion centers on Christian Pulisic's choice to sit out the Gold Cup to rest after a grueling season with AC Milan.

Jason McIntyre observes:
"Pulisic's decision might be sending a message about his fatigue and possibly his relationship with the new coach, Mauricio Pochettino." [10:00]

Alexi Lalas criticizes the decision, emphasizing the importance of leadership:
"If you were in crisis mode and chose to take a vacation instead of fighting for the team, it reflects poorly on both the player and the organization." [11:46]

3. Team Depth and Coaching Challenges

The conversation shifts to the broader issues of team depth and the challenges Pochettino faces in building a competitive squad.

Jason McIntyre points out the lack of depth:
"With the top players abroad, the rest of the squad hasn't stepped up to fill the void. Our talent pool is thin compared to top soccer nations." [06:30]

Alexi Lalas adds:
"Pochettino has a strong pedigree in club soccer, but international management is different. Additionally, the diverse backgrounds of our players lead to varying philosophies, making it hard to forge a unified team identity." [09:11]

4. The Importance of Team Identity

A recurring theme is the absence of a clear team identity, which hampers the USMNT's performance on the international stage.

Jason McIntyre draws parallels to other sports:
"In the NFL, teams like the New Orleans Saints have a clear identity based on efficiency and intelligence. The USMNT lacks this coherence." [19:51]

Alexi Lalas elaborates on the diversity issue:
"Our national team's diversity means a diversity of thought in how players approach the game. This makes it difficult to ensure all 11 players are aligned in the same direction on the field." [09:11]

5. Upcoming Gold Cup and World Cup Preparations

The panel discusses the significance of the Gold Cup as a preparatory ground for the World Cup, emphasizing the need for the USMNT to use this tournament to build momentum.

Alexi Lalas states:
"The Gold Cup is an opportunity to light a fire under the team. Performing well here can set a positive course for the World Cup next year." [17:38]

Jason McIntyre concurs, noting the team's potential if they can harness their existing talent:
"When top players like Pulisic are in the right mindset, the team can turn things around quickly, much like how good leadership can transform a political party." [18:55]

6. Comparisons to Previous Eras and Expectations

Reflecting on past USMNT teams, the panel draws comparisons to earlier eras, highlighting how expectations have evolved.

Alexi Lalas reminisces:
"Back in 1994, we might not have envisioned the team we have now, a year before hosting the World Cup. The current state is not what I had hoped for." [10:57]

Jason McIntyre adds a nostalgic perspective:
"Previously, teams like those with Landon Donovan played with a chip on their shoulder, focusing on defense and playing above their skill level. Today, we lack that clear strategic focus." [21:47]

7. Conclusion and Future Outlook

The episode concludes with a mixed outlook for the USMNT. While there are significant challenges, there is also hope that pivotal tournaments like the Gold Cup can serve as catalysts for positive change.

Alexi Lalas emphasizes the urgency:
"We got to get ourselves in order, both on and off the field, to present a strong image to the world during the upcoming World Cup." [09:11]

Jason McIntyre remains cautiously optimistic:
"If the team can harness its existing talent and Pochettino can instill a clear identity, there's potential to turn things around. However, the next year is crucial." [19:51]

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Jason McIntyre [03:38]:
  "We have a group of five or six elite players, all overseas playing well, but our talent pool isn't as deep as countries like the Netherlands, Colombia, or Spain. Last night's loss was a wake-up call."

• Alexi Lalas [05:02]:
  "This is the U.S. men's National Team that is looked upon with criticism and apathy. Not appearing for the Gold Cup is a bad look, especially a year before a home World Cup."

• Jason McIntyre [10:00]:
  "Pulisic's decision might be sending a message about his fatigue and possibly his relationship with the new coach, Mauricio Pochettino."

• Alexi Lalas [11:46]:
  "If you were in crisis mode and chose to take a vacation instead of fighting for the team, it reflects poorly on both the player and the organization."

• Alexi Lalas [09:11]:
  "Our national team's diversity means a diversity of thought in how players approach the game. This makes it difficult to ensure all 11 players are aligned in the same direction on the field."

Final Thoughts:
Hour 3 of The Herd with Colin Cowherd offers a critical and insightful analysis of the US Men's National Soccer Team's current trajectory. With honest assessments from seasoned analysts, the episode underscores the urgent need for strategic coherence, enhanced team depth, and unified leadership to elevate the USMNT's performance on the global stage.