Tyler Adams has been named captain of the United States men’s national soccer team once again, head coach Mauricio Pochettino announced Friday.
The 27-year-old Bournemouth midfielder previously led the USMNT at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. He now succeeds Tim Ream, who wore the captain’s armband during the United States’ run to the round of 16 at last summer’s tournament.
Ream announced his retirement from international soccer before Tuesday’s 4-2 victory over Chile.
Pochettino revealed the decision ahead of Saturday’s friendly against longtime rival Mexico, expressing his confidence in Adams as the team’s new leader.
“We are so happy to announce that he is going to be our leader and our captain,” Pochettino said. “We’ve built a very good relationship over the last two years. We have spoken a lot, and he knows exactly what I expect. He is a perfect role model for everyone in terms of our philosophy, our future and representing this amazing country. He is the player and the person who can lead us through the period ahead. Congratulations to him.”
Adams welcomed the responsibility enthusiastically while speaking with reporters in Tempe, Arizona, on Friday.
Tyler Adams (left) has been restored as captain of the United States men’s national team, with head coach Mauricio Pochettino (right) announcing the decision Friday
Pochettino called Adams the “perfect role model” after appointing him captain
“I’m extremely honored and grateful for the opportunity,” Adams said. “As Mauricio said, we’ve built an amazing relationship over the past two years with the entire staff and my teammates, going into this past World Cup.”
“As we begin a new cycle, I’m excited to help my teammates and the staff in any way I can so that we can win, grow the federation and ultimately take the next step. I really appreciate it.”
FIND OUT MORE: Ex-NBA Star J.R. Smith Accused of Attacking Woman in Court Filing
“Wearing the armband doesn’t change who I am or make me different as a leader. I’m going to remain the exact same person. I want to help lead this group toward a winning culture while continuing to build what we’re creating here. I want to represent my teammates in the best way possible.”
Pochettino told the team about the appointment Thursday, explaining that he reached the decision in consultation with his coaching staff.
Adams takes over from outgoing captain Tim Ream (left), who is retiring from international soccer
Asked whether Adams could remain captain through the 2030 World Cup, Pochettino agreed—provided the veteran midfielder “behaved well.”
“It’s important for the new staff to make this decision and for everyone to know that Tyler is the perfect person, player and professional to lead in the way we expect,” Pochettino said.
“In the last few weeks, as we’ve spoken with him, he has understood exactly what we expect. He needs to challenge us, of course, as a coaching staff, and he needs to defend his teammates,” Pochettino added.
Adams impressed not only with his play at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar but also with his composed handling of reporters. That poise was especially evident when he faced difficult political questions before the United States’ tense group-stage meeting with Iran.
Pochettino said Friday that this composure, along with Adams’ leadership qualities, made him the natural choice to captain the team.
“He has the qualities and the character to handle this type of situation,” Pochettino said. “He represents the federation and the players, but also us—the coaches and the staff. He is also excellent at communicating with the media and the fans.”
The United States and Mexico will meet at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, with kickoff scheduled for 7 p.m. local time, or 9 p.m. EST.
