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From Text to Triumph: How Two Men Reshaped US Soccer
2 Jul
Summary
- Two businessmen provided crucial financial aid for the USMNT coach.
- One businessman offered to personally fund the coach's salary.
- A movie inspired the coach to better understand American sports culture.
The current success of the U.S. men's national soccer team is significantly attributed to the vision and financial contributions of businessmen Scott Goodwin and Ken Griffin. Goodwin, inspired by a 2024 Copa América loss, initiated a movement to improve the team's direction, ultimately offering to fund the head coach's salary.
After discussions with U.S. Soccer CEO JT Batson, Goodwin's commitment, later joined by Ken Griffin's substantial financial support, facilitated the hiring of Mauricio Pochettino in September 2024. Pochettino became the highest-paid coach in U.S. soccer history at approximately $6 million annually.
Pochettino's tenure initially faced challenges as he navigated American sports culture. Goodwin advised him to watch the movie "Miracle," which helped the coach understand the unifying power of a national team. This led to a profound shift in his perspective and the team's development.
The team's performance and culture have since improved, marked by player engagement and national pride. Goodwin noted the coach's growing connection to American culture, highlighted by moments like singing the national anthem and "Country Roads" together.
