Why Summer Olympics have turned into major USMNT priority

FAYETTEVILLE, Ga.— The Olympics have never been a particularly impactful competition for the men’s side of the U.S.

Soccer Federation.While the women are historically excellent there, winning five golds and only failing to medal once since the competition was introduced in 1996, the men didn’t so much as qualify for their tournament, which is restricted to under-23s, from 2008 until 2024. That is changing this cycle: 2028 will be a critical summer for the men’s program not only because of the Copa America, but because of the Los Angeles Olympics, which everyone from federation head J.T.

Batson to senior men’s coach Mauricio Pochettino on down has indicated is a major priority. “When we were talking about [extending my] contract, also, the federation has to help a little bit to build that way to arrive to the 2028 Olympic Games,” Pochettino said.“Working very closely with Steve [Cherundolo], with the under-23s, with all the youth in the federation, all the structure to try to build that experience, to ask them to arrive to the Olympic Games with the possibility to have that experience that can provide a gold medal.” For more proof of that, look no further than training here in Georgia, where U-23 coach Steve Cherundolo — hired soon after the World Cup campaign ended this summer, with Pochettino’s involvement — has overseen a roster that features 10 players who will be Olympic-eligible: Cavan Sullivan, Julian Hall, Justin Ellis, Cole Campbell, Adri Mehmeti, Zavier Gozo, Mathis Albert, Frankie Westfield, Peyton Miller and Diego Kochen. Naturally, their goals will be to earn a permanent spot in the senior team by then.

But for the Olympic team to compete for a medal, it will need their involvement. Ricardo Pepi’s club, PSV Eindhoven, released a statement saying it will be without him “for the upcoming matches,” and that the striker is focusing on recovering from an injury sustained over the weekend. “Thanks to everyone for the wa...