Wednesday Convo: Chicago Fire's Kellyn Acosta talks Mauricio Pochettino, USMNT future, and Leagues Cup
Getty Images SportThe Fire’s midfielder shares about his U.S. career, his anticipation for a new manager, and his thoughts on the potential evolution of competition within the MLS.
Since his debut in 2016, Kellyn Acosta has been an undervalued component of the U.S. men’s national team. Could a fresh phase at U.S. Soccer rekindle his international career?
Acosta played a vital role in Gregg Berhalter’s 2021 strategies. He participated in 21 games that year, the highest number for any U.S. international since 1994. As a deep-lying playmaker, he made a significant defensive impact and contributed to the USMNT’s triumph in winning three trophies – the Gold Cups in 2017 and 2021, and a thrilling Nations League victory in 2021. In addition, he made two appearances in the 2022 World Cup. However, despite his productive contributions, Acosta has not made an appearance since April 2023.
Now things might be different. U.S. Soccer moved on from Berhalter after a disappointing 2024 Copa America. After a high-profile head coach search, former Tottenham, PSG and Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino reportedly has agreed to be the next head coach. With the Argentine coach taking over an ambitious squad ahead of a crucial two-year stretch, Acosta is determined to impress and make his case for inclusion. Despite playing for a struggling Chicago Fire team, he hopes his strong form this season will catch the new manager's eye.
For the Wednesday Convo, a weekly Q&A with central figures in the U.S. soccer scene, GOAL US caught up with the midfielder to talk about Pochettino, his national team hopes, and the Leagues Cup.
