USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino has distanced his team from commenting on the high ticket prices for the upcoming World Cup. During a Zoom call, Pochettino emphasized that players should focus on their performance on the pitch rather than evaluating ticket costs. This stance comes after winger Timothy Weah criticized ticket prices in the French press, noting that they are prohibitive for many fans.

With ticket prices ranging up to $8,680 per ticket, Pochettino believes it is not the team's duty to assess or criticize these prices. FIFA, which has received over 500 million requests, has defended the pricing. Pochettino stressed that his role is to prepare the team for the tournament, starting with friendlies against Belgium, Portugal, Senegal, and Germany before their World Cup opener against Paraguay on June 12 in California.

The coach's comments highlight a growing tension between the sport's governing body and fan expectations. While FIFA aims to maximize revenue, fans worldwide have expressed dissatisfaction with the prices. Pochettino's response suggests a broader trend of coaches and players being advised to steer clear of such controversies, focusing instead on on-field performance.

As the World Cup approaches, the debate over ticket prices is likely to continue. With fans already facing challenges due to the high costs, the pressure is on for FIFA to address these concerns. Meanwhile, the USMNT, under Pochettino, will be looking to build momentum through their upcoming matches, aiming to make a strong impression in the tournament.