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Mauricio Pochettino has stirred debate by publishing his pick for an all-time World Cup XI, and the list has one clear rule that explains the absence of modern superstars like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. The former Tottenham manager, now leading the USMNT, shaped a vintage-heavy team that nods to football history as the US prepares to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Pochettino’s all-time World Cup XI revealed
Pochettino shared his selections in a column for The Athletic, crafting a side that mixes defensive steel with creative genius. He favored retired icons and built a squad that spans continents and eras.
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- Goalkeeper: Thomas N’Kono (Cameroon)
- Center Back: Franz Beckenbauer (Germany)
- Full Backs: Carles Puyol (Spain), Paolo Maldini (Italy)
- Midfield Wing-Backs: Zinedine Zidane (left), David Beckham (right)
- Central Midfield: Michael Laudrup
- Attack: Pelé (striker), Diego Maradona (attacking midfielder)
- Wingers: Hristo Stoichkov (Bulgaria), Johan Cruyff (Netherlands)
Why Messi and Ronaldo were not considered
Pochettino applied a simple eligibility rule when building this team. Only players who had finished their careers were allowed. That criterion automatically excludes active stars.
This explains why recent icons such as Messi, Ronaldo, Kylian Mbappé, and Neymar do not appear. Pochettino said he wanted to avoid debates about current form or ongoing careers.
What the lineup says about Pochettino’s football philosophy
The selection emphasizes balance, versatility, and leadership. Several names point to tactical intelligence and defensive reliability.
- Experience over flash: Veterans with World Cup pedigree were preferred.
- Defensive backbone: Beckenbauer, Puyol, Maldini and N’Kono form a historically strong unit.
- Creativity in midfield and attack: Zidane, Laudrup, Maradona and Cruyff bring playmaking quality.
Tactical breakdown: strengths by area
Defense and goalkeeper
The backline blends tactical intelligence and physicality. N’Kono’s shot-stopping complements composed ball-playing defenders.
Midfield balance and width
Zidane and Beckham on the flanks provide both creativity and set-piece threat. Laudrup offers linking play between lines.
Attack and finishing
Pelé and Maradona offer unmatched finishing and vision. Cruyff and Stoichkov add pace and unpredictability on the wings.
Context: USMNT, Pochettino, and the road to the 2026 World Cup
Pochettino took charge of the USMNT with high expectations. Hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup puts added pressure on the team.
- The US opens its World Cup group against Paraguay on June 13, 2026.
- Pochettino’s public picks underline his respect for tournament history.
- The selection also frames a coaching vision rooted in organization and iconic leadership.
