A behind-the-scenes look at elite preparation, mindset, and what young players can learn from the highest level of the game.

About This Episode

In Episode 30 of The Soccer Ladder, we are joined by Jesús Pérez (@jpp_71), assistant coach of the U.S. Men’s National Team (@usmnt) and longtime collaborator of head coach Mauricio Pochettino (@pochettino).

With the next World Cup on the horizon, Jesús Pérez shares what elite tournament preparation truly looks like behind the scenes — and why this U.S. team genuinely believes it can compete to win it.

From passion and commitment at the highest level to youth development, parenting advice, and the importance of unstructured play, this episode delivers a powerful perspective for players and families navigating today’s game.

In This Episode

How Jesús Pérez transitioned from aspiring player to elite coach
The impact of sports science on his coaching philosophy
What makes his 15-year partnership with Mauricio Pochettino work
What fans don’t see during major tournament preparation
Why no one truly knows the final roster until the last moment
The two qualities Jesús Pérez values most in USMNT players: passion + commitment
How to reduce the gap between your best version and your worst version
The potential impact of hosting a World Cup in the U.S.
Advice for 12–15-year-old players dreaming of the national team
Why staying close to family matters during early development
Honest thoughts on rushing careers and early moves abroad
Clear advice for parents: be a parent, not the coach
Winning vs. development — and why competitive mentality still matters
Why young players should stop worrying about money
Why kids need more unstructured, free play
Rapid fire: the one word that defines a World Cup player

Key Takeaways

✔ Passion and commitment separate elite players
✔Consistency matters more than occasional brilliance
✔Stay close to family during foundational years
✔Free play builds creativity that structured training cannot
✔Parents should support — not coach from the sidelines
✔Winning and development can coexist

Connect

Jesús Pérez
📸 Instagram: @jpp_71

U.S. Men’s National Team
📸 Instagram: @usmnt

Mauricio Pochettino
📸 Instagram: @pochettino

🎙 Hosted by @meganlinkeofficial & @liamlinke18
🎧 Listen now on The Soccer Ladder