Pochettino and MLS highlight long-term development in youth sports

USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino and MLS NEXT are using this week’s roster news to make a broader point about youth sports: development matters as much as results. MLS NEXT’s Quality of Play rankings for U13 and U14 teams put more weight on tactical understanding, movement, and individual growth than on wins and goals. The approach is meant to help young players improve while still keeping competition part of the experience. Pochettino echoed that theme while announcing a younger USMNT roster for upcoming friendlies. He said coaches and parents need to protect young athletes from unrealistic pressure and remember that balance, confidence, and longterm growth are key. The article also points to MLS NEXT’s expansion and its role in creating more opportunities for players, coaches, and college scouts.