FIFA 2026: Pochettino Trusts Tillmans Brilliance

FIFA 2026: Mauricio Pochettino waited for a moment to gather his opinions. Known for being expressive in both English and Spanish, the coach hesitated when asked to name his standout player of this summer’s World Cup. Perhaps the delay came from reflecting not just on the present but on a player’s meteoric rise.

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From a hopeful name on the roster to a guaranteed starter in just three group-stage matches. It’s hard to put it into words (Malik Tillman), because what a player, right? What a player he’s become during this camp, Pochettino said. This kind of player, with the skill he’s shown every match, combined with what he does off the ball.

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The discipline, the hunger, the aggression, he’s something special. That has been the situation with Tillman, who netted in the 10th minute of the United States’ 2-1 victory over Haiti at AT&T Stadium, marking his third goal in a perfect group-stage performance. The U.S. now turns its attention to Sunday’s quarterfinal clash against Costa Rica.

Injury hit USA Finds Hope in Tillman before the Football World Cup 2026

Three victories away from clinching the continental title. Winning this year would be more impressive than in previous editions. Not only would it generate confidence heading into the 2026 World Cup, but it would also come despite a series of notable absences in the squad. Key creator Christian Pulisic opted to sit out the summer due to exhaustion.

While Weston McKennie, Tim Weah, and Gio Reyna are taking part in the World Cup, which coincides with this tournament. Folarin Balogun, Sergiño Dest, and Antonee Robinson are also unreachable due to current injury concerns. Despite these gaps, Tillman has stepped up impressively. While Pulisic, Weah, Balogun, Dest.

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Robinson is expected to reclaim their places once fit. Reyna’s fit with the national team has long been uncertain. With Tillman’s breakout performances and steady development at the World Cup level, coupled with Reyna’s struggles to find minutes or a consistent role, Tillman is not just playing his way into Pochettino’s preferred XI he’s found the ideal position to call his own.

From Bayern Roots to US Star Tillman Rises Ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026

Tillman brings real attacking quality. His finishing ability is no longer in question. Against Haiti, he nearly grabbed a second goal when one effort bounced in off his shoulder but was ruled out for handball, and another saw him flagged narrowly offside. But it’s not just in front of the goal where Tillman shines. His influence elsewhere on the pitch has stood out throughout the tournament.

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Whether orchestrating the attack, switching roles with fellow forwards to unsettle defenders, or retreating to support the midfield, Tillman is showcasing impressive stamina and a team-first mentality. He wins the ball back constantly, he’s always pressing, recovering, adapting, Pochettino noted. He can play like a No. 10 between the lines.

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Drift wide on either flank, or drop deeper to operate as a 6 or 8. Such a gifted player. I’m really happy with him. Yet, despite becoming the U.S. team’s most influential player at the tournament, Tillman remains grounded. A quiet 23-year-old who came through the Bayern Munich academy, he’s more focused on what lies ahead than what he’s already accomplished.

From Frustration to Focus Tillman Prepares for World Cup 2026 Spotlight

To be honest, I get frustrated, Tillman admitted after Sunday’s match when asked about the missed opportunities. Maybe you guys don’t notice it, but I try to keep it inside and not let it show. I’m still disappointed I didn’t score again. It’s about always moving forward. Don’t dwell on what just happened. With several days before the quarterfinal against Costa Rica.

Tillman will likely spend his time analyzing, fine-tuning, and sharpening his game instead of celebrating. That’s been the story at the tournament level, too, where he had a breakout season with PSV. He focused on improving his long-range shots and off-the-ball movement. He wrapped up the campaign with a dozen goals in the Dutch top flight and three more in the Champions League.

He returned from an ankle injury late in the year to help deliver the league title. His form didn’t just earn him Pochettino’s attention, it’s also drawn serious interest from Bayer Leverkusen, which is reportedly considering triggering his release clause to bring him back to the Bundesliga. His present contract with PSV runs through 2028.

Gomez Backs Tillman to Start as USA Midfield Evolves for FIFA 2026

For now, Tillman continues strengthening his case to be a first-choice name in Pochettino’s lineup come next summer’s World Cup. With his dynamic play in attack, dedication to defense, and relentless desire to grow, he’s emerging not just as a key contributor but as the heartbeat of this national team.

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Herculez Gomez recently compared the paths of two U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) midfielders, highlighting how Giovanni Reyna has seemingly faded from the picture while praising Malik Tillman’s rise in form. Tillman, currently shining at PSV Eindhoven, has been making headlines with three goals in as many matches during the World Cup.

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Gomez was impressed by the 23-year-old’s performances and believes that if he continues this trajectory, he could earn a starting role at the 2026 World Cup. Stick with me here, Gomez said on Futbol Americas. Not long ago, the only real competition for Malik Tillman was Giovanni Reyna. But where is Reyna now in this mix?

From Eredivisie Star to US Leader, Tillman Demands Role at the FIFA World Cup

He’s practically missing in action, like he belongs on the side of a milk carton. Gomez went on to highlight how Mauricio Pochettino’s praise of Tillman, along with the midfielder’s consistent acts over the past two seasons, especially this last one, where he was arguably the best player in the Eredivisie, makes a strong case for his inclusion in the USMNT starting XI.

He’s earned the right to be mentioned alongside players like Christian Pulisic, Timothy Weah, Tyler Adams, and Weston McKennie, Gomez added. You look at him and think, ‘Yeah, I can see him fitting into that lineup.’ Meanwhile, the big question is, where is Gio Reyna? Tillman’s making a serious case, and honestly.

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