Adams Named USMNT Captain, Succeeds Ream
Coach Pochettino cites midfielder's leadership qualities and communication skills in appointing him to the role.
Tyler Adams has been named the new captain of the United States men's national soccer team, head coach Mauricio Pochettino announced Friday. The 27-year-old Bournemouth midfielder takes over the captaincy from Tim Ream, who retired from international play following the team's round-of-16 exit in the recent World Cup.
Pochettino expressed confidence in Adams, describing him as the "perfect role model" and "the player and the person that can lead that period that we have ahead." The coach highlighted Adams's strong relationship with the staff and teammates over the past two years, emphasizing his suitability to represent the team and the country.
Adams, who previously captained the USMNT at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, accepted the honor with gratitude. "I'm extremely honored and grateful for the opportunity," Adams stated. "As we start a new cycle, I'm excited to be able to help my teammates and the staff in any way possible in order to win, grow the federation and ultimately take that next step."
He added that receiving the armband would not change his approach. "I'm going to be the exact same person. I'm going to try and obviously lead this group into a winning culture and continuing to build what we're trying to build here," Adams said. "So yeah, I want to represent my teammates in the best way possible."
Pochettino informed the team of his decision, made in conjunction with his coaching staff, on Thursday. He indicated that Adams would likely remain captain through the 2030 World Cup, provided he maintained good conduct.
"It's important [for] the new staff to nominate or to have the chance to announce and everyone to know that Tyler is the perfect person, player and professional to be the leader in the way that we expect," Pochettino said. He also noted Adams's ability to challenge the coaching staff and defend his teammates.
Pochettino also praised Adams's composure, referencing his performance during the 2022 World Cup, particularly in navigating sensitive political questions. "There's plenty of things that I think he has the quality and have the feelings to deal with this type of situation," Pochettino said, referring to Adams's capacity to represent the federation, players, coaches, and staff, as well as communicate effectively with the media and fans.
The USMNT is scheduled to play a friendly against Mexico on Saturday at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. The match is set to kick off at 9 p.m. EST.