Match story
- Udinese created the clearer chances on xG (1.91 vs 1.50, Δ 0.41).
- Udinese fired more attempts (14 vs 10 shots).
- AC Milan was more accurate in front of goal (60% on target vs 36%).
- AC Milan held more of the ball (64% possession).
Udinese defeated AC Milan 3-1 in Serie A. The fixture is part of the Regular Season - 27 stage in the 2022 season. The match was played at Dacia Arena in Udine. D. Doveri officiated the match. The full-time result capped a Udinese vs AC Milan meeting in Serie A with detailed post-match statistics available on Sportra. This match centre covers lineups, live events, player ratings, team statistics, xG, head-to-head history, and related news for Udinese and AC Milan. On Sportra you can view xG, lineups, match statistics, events, player ratings, predictions, head-to-head history, and related news for this fixture.
Serie ARecorded meetings: 20 (available previous meetings, not necessarily all-time).
Udinese defeated AC Milan 3-1 in Serie A. The fixture is part of the Regular Season - 27 stage in the 2022 season. The match was played at Dacia Arena in Udine. D. Doveri officiated the match. The full-time result capped a Udinese vs AC Milan meeting in Serie A with detailed post-match statistics available on Sportra. This match centre covers lineups, live events, player ratings, team statistics, xG, head-to-head history, and related news for Udinese and AC Milan. On Sportra you can view xG, lineups, match statistics, events, player ratings, predictions, head-to-head history, and related news for this fixture.
Serie ARecorded meetings: 20 (available previous meetings, not necessarily all-time).
The speeches had been made, and the ribbon cut, at a new mini-pitch a mile from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Now the mayor and soccer officials were giving interviews. Steve Davis — a former Dallas Morning News sportswriter, longtime FC Dallas radio analyst, now Director of Legacy Programs for FIFA World Cup 26 Dallas […] The post Steve Davis on the World Cup’s North Texas legacy: ‘Celebrate the game, build confidence and community’ appeared first on Soccer America.
His recovery comes at a crucial point for both Pulisic and Milan, with new head coach Ruben Amorim preparing for the opening weeks of the Serie A campaign and hoping to get one of his most talented attackers back to full fitness. Christian Pulisic is edging closer to his return for Milan, but the American winger’s comeback is being handled with caution after a difficult summer. His recovery comes at a crucial point for both Pulisic and Milan, with new head coach Ruben Amorim preparing for the opening weeks of the Serie A campaign and hoping to get one of his most talented attackers back to full fitness. The American has been sidelined since the United States’ World Cup exit against Belgium in July. The 27-year-old suffered a bone bruise and microfracture around his lower leg after colliding with Youri Tielemans while attempting to strike the ball, bringing a frustrating end to a tournament in which he had already battled another injury. The latest development has provided Milan with a major boost, as Pulisic returned to partial team training at Milanello. He completed part of the session, including speed and agility exercises, marking his first significant involvement with the squad since the World Cup injury. The American had missed Milan’s entire preseason while recovering, leaving him behind the rest of Amorim’s squad in terms of match fitness. Although Pulisic is understood to have recovered physically, the Rossoneri are taking a measured approach rather than rushing him back into competitive action. View this post on Instagram That cautious approach means the winger is reportedly expected to miss Milan’s Serie A opener against Torino. The club’s medical and coaching staff believe he still needs time to rebuild his fitness after more than six weeks away from regular soccer. When could Pulisic return? The current plan points toward a later return, with Pulisic potentially being included for Milan’s first home league match against Venezia on August 28, La Gazzetta dello Sport reports. The possibility of appearing from the bench would represent a significant step forward after a summer dominated by injuries and disappointment. The timing would also give Pulisic several additional days to work on his conditioning and integrate into Amorim’s tactical plans. Rather than forcing him into the season opener, Milan appear prepared to wait until the American is sufficiently prepared to contribute. Pulisic’s latest injury came after he had already struggled with a calf problem during the World Cup. He aggravated that issue against Paraguay, missed the following match against Australia and later returned against Turkiye before starting the United States’ 2-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina. Christian Pulisic #10 of the United States reacts Pulisic has plenty to prove after difficult months The injury setback followed a frustrating period for Pulisic at club and international level. He endured a 19-game scoring drought for Milan, while his World Cup campaign ended with no goals after he had hoped to make a major impact on home soil. Pulisic admitted his disappointment following the United States’ elimination, writing on Instagram: “Tough to find the words. I want to start by saying thank you to everyone who believed. The support carried us all the way through.” The winger also acknowledged that the United States had fallen short of expectations, adding that he had wanted to deliver more for the national team. His focus now shifts back to San Siro, where he will have an opportunity to rebuild his momentum under a new manager.
It's that time of the year again - the transfer window is now open until September 1 and it's sure to be a busy period as clubs look to make big signings ahead of the new season.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema have shared the Saudi Pro League spotlight since their moves to the Middle East, but the latest development surrounding the Frenchman's future could take their rivalry in a completely unexpected direction. Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema have shared the Saudi Pro League spotlight since their moves to the Middle East, but the latest development surrounding the Frenchman’s future could take their rivalry in a completely unexpected direction. With Benzema’s position at Al-Hilal increasingly uncertain, a surprising Turkish destination has now emerged, potentially setting up a blockbuster reunion with another global superstar. Benzema’s future has become increasingly complicated after Al-Hilal began considering a major overhaul of its attacking options. The former Real Madrid captain remains productive, but his place in Simone Inzaghi’s plans is reportedly under serious scrutiny, creating uncertainty over where the 38-year-old will play next. Benzema joined Al-Hilal in January after ending his spell with Al-Ittihad, but his time in Riyadh could already be approaching an unexpected conclusion. The Frenchman has scored nine goals and provided five assists in 13 appearances for the Blue Waves, showing that his individual numbers remain impressive despite the doubts surrounding his future. The club is reportedly considering terminating his contract as it looks to reshape its squad and accommodate another high-profile striker. Harry Kane, Ollie Watkins and Victor Osimhen have all emerged as possible targets, with Inzaghi understood to want another center-forward for the new campaign. Karim Benzema of Al Hilal celebrates with his coach Simone Inzaghi The situation is complicated by Benzema’s contract, as the striker reportedly wants the full amount owed for the final year of his deal before agreeing to leave. That demand has made negotiations more difficult and could determine whether Al-Hilal can move ahead with its preferred attacking changes. Turkish Super Lig suddenly enters the Benzema race That uncertainty has now opened the door to the surprise development involving Trabzonspor, which has reportedly made contact regarding Benzema. According to Turkish journalist Yagız Sabuncuoglu, the club has inquired about the conditions required to sign the veteran striker while its discussions with Al-Hilal continue. “Trabzonspor inquired about the conditions for Karim Benzema, who wears the Al-Hilal shirt!” Sabuncuoglu reported on X (formerly Twitter). He added: “Trabzonspor has not yet reached an agreement in their discussions with Al-Hilal. As the process continues, Karim Benzema was offered to Trabzonspor, and simultaneous talks with the French star have begun!” Trabzonspor, Al-Hilal ile yaptığı görüşmelerde henüz anlaşmaya varamadı. Süreç devam ederken Karim Benzema, Trabzonspor'a önerildi ve Fransız yıldızla eşzamanlı görüşmeler başladı! https://t.co/1ssqyHDXON— Yağız Sabuncuoğlu (@yagosabuncuoglu) August 18, 2026 The move represents a major change in Trabzonspor’s transfer strategy, particularly because the club had failed to close a deal for Darwin Nunez. With those negotiations yet to produce an agreement, Benzema has emerged as an experienced alternative for the attack. Mohamed Salah could make the move even bigger The biggest twist is the possibility that Benzema could join Mohamed Salah at Trabzonspor, creating a remarkable attacking partnership if the negotiations progress. Salah reportedly joined the Turkish club on a free transfer after leaving Liverpool, signing a two-year contract on August 6. Mohamed Salah at Trabzonspor That would give the Claret-Blues two of the most recognizable forwards of their generation in the same attack. Salah’s arrival has already transformed the profile of the Turkish club, while Benzema would add Champions League experience, elite finishing and the pedigree of a former Ballon d’Or winner. However, the talks remain at an early stage, and there is currently no
The league has introduced a series of changes designed to make matches faster and reduce the amount of time lost to stoppages, with the new approach potentially changing how players manage substitutions, injuries and restarts. Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie are entering another important Serie A campaign with Milan and Juventus respectively, but the American stars will have something new to deal with once they step onto the pitch. The league has introduced a series of changes designed to make matches faster and reduce the amount of time lost to stoppages, with the new approach potentially changing how players manage substitutions, injuries and restarts. The changes arrive after a summer in which similar measures were trialed elsewhere in soccer, including at the 2026 World Cup. Serie A wants more soccer actually being played, while referees have also been given clearer instructions on player behavior and communication with officials. For Pulisic, who is looking to rediscover his best form with Milan after a difficult second half of last season, the changes could create a faster and more demanding environment. The American winger scored 10 Serie A goals before the turn of the year last season but then went through a prolonged scoring drought, making a strong response particularly important. McKennie enters the season after producing the best numbers of his Juventus career, having recorded nine goals and six assists in 52 appearances last campaign. His versatility means he could be particularly exposed to the substitution and injury-management changes, especially given how frequently he operates across different positions. Christian Pulisic #10 and Weston McKennie #8 of the United States celebrate a goal. The two Americans are also among the leading USMNT figures preparing for another major period with the national team. The new Serie A regulations could therefore have an impact beyond their club careers, particularly as players adjust to a quicker tempo and fewer opportunities to slow matches down. Serie A introduces stricter rules on time-wasting The biggest change concerns the amount of time players will have to restart play or leave the field. A substituted player must leave the pitch within 10 seconds after the substitution board is shown, while the countdown begins when the final board is displayed if several substitutions are made simultaneously. Throw-ins and goal kicks are also coming under greater scrutiny. Players will have five seconds to restart play, with a corner awarded to the opposition if a goalkeeper takes longer than five seconds to take a goal kick. The new rules also target situations involving injuries. A player who receives treatment on the field must remain off the pitch for one minute after play resumes, although goalkeepers are exempt from the provision. Former Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri embrace his player Rafael Leao Serie A’s leadership believes these changes can make a significant difference to the spectacle. “Many of the changes introduced will concern situations where play is stopped, with the aim of increasing the effective playing time of matches, making games even more dynamic and spectacular,” Serie A CEO Luigi De Siervo said, according to ANSA via CalcioMercato. Only captains can approach the referee Another major change concerns communication with officials. Only the designated captain will be allowed to approach the referee to complain or request explanations, meaning other players will have to stay away from confrontations. Daniele Orsato explained the reasoning behind the measure during the briefing attended by representatives from all 20 Serie A clubs. “The captain will be the figure representing the club on the pitch, and the referee will only refer to them,” Orsato said, according to CalcioMercato. Lautaro Martinez #10 of FC Internazionale Milano speaks with the match officials The refereeing authorities have also addressed the controversial gesture of covering the mouth d
Tab Ramos, who appeared in three World Cups, shared his assessment of head coach Mauricio Pochettino, Christian Pulisic, and the USMNT, stating that the team fell short of expectations at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Co-hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup gave the USMNT a historic advantage. However, the team couldn’t capitalize on home turf, and Tab Ramos has weighed in on how far Mauricio Pochettino and his squad fell short of expectations. During an exclusive interview with Bolavip, former U.S. midfielder Tab Ramos discussed the national team’s performance at the 2026 World Cup. He also analyzed the performances of the players, including Christian Pulisic. The three-time World Cup veteran was critical of the Stars and Stripes for failing to fulfill expectations during a once-in-a-generation opportunity on home soil. Tab Ramos critical of Mauricio Pochettino’s impact In 2024, U.S Soccer made a landmark hire by appointing Mauricio Pochettino as head coach. His top-tier European experience convinced many that better days were on the horizon, but the results failed to break new ground. Mauricio Pochettino, Head Coach of the United States. According to Ramos, Pochettino repeatedly asked fans and media to reserve judgment until the World Cup. Given Pochettino’s position as one of the world’s highest-paid international managers, merely matching the country’s standard Round of 16 exit was a disappointment. “In terms of the national team itself, I thought, in general, the national team had a good performance,” Ramos said. “I thought our first game against Paraguay was likely the best that any U.S. team has ever played at a World Cup, and I think that’s a very positive sign. However, in general, you have to judge the national team by results, and I think the results were just barely okay and really below the expectations.” Analyzing the USMNT’s World Cup performance Ramos backed his criticism with detailed tactical analysis rather than superficial claims. He pointed out that the team’s inconsistency during the tournament mirrored their form over the previous 18 months, making the early knockout departure a predictable outcome. “Well, I mean, it seems like going to the Round of 16 is the norm for our country here, regardless of the coach that we have,” he said. “And so, because we brought in Mauricio Pochettino, and he’s one of the highest-paid national team coaches in the world and obviously he has incredible experience overseas, our expectations were a little bit higher than getting to the same place we always get. “We waited for two years in the beginning of Pochettino’s era, as we didn’t get good results. He kept saying, ‘Well, we’ve got to wait for the World Cup. We have to wait for the World Cup.’ And we waited for the World Cup, but in the end, we ended up getting the same results as always. So, in general, I’d have to say this World Cup was below expectations.” The criticism toward Christian Pulisic through the eyes of Tab Ramos Christian Pulisic was among the marquee players who received the most criticism during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The AC Milan winger was unable to dominate matches to the extent fans had hoped, but Tab Ramos believes such scrutiny is entirely normal for a player of his standing. “Well, I think criticism is fair. This is what this game is about, right? I’m sure there were some people who thought that because we played well in the first-round games that the full performance was good enough. And then there’s going to be people that are going to say, ‘Well, that’s not good enough. I think we got to the same place as other World Cups.’”
Newcastle United have been in touch over a possible deal for AC Milan striker Christopher Nkunku, who has turned down Galatasaray. The post ‘Contacts In These Hours’ – Newcastle United In To Take Advantage As Star Rejects Move appeared first on Inside Futbol | Latest Football News, Transfer Rumours & Articles.
Newcastle United have stepped up their search for an experienced midfielder by opening discussions with Manchester City over a possible deal for Nico Gonzalez. The Magpies have been forced into a major midfield rebuild following the summer departures of Bruno Guimaraes to Arsenal and Sandro Tonali to Tottenham. Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as […] The post Newcastle United open exploratory talks to sign £52m Man City player appeared first on CaughtOffside.
Cardiff striker Roko Simic is close to joining Magdeburg after the clubs reached an agreement in principle, but the deal is ‘not done’ yet. The post ‘Reached An Agreement’ – Cardiff City Close To Signing Off On Deal appeared first on Inside Futbol | Latest Football News, Transfer Rumours & Articles.
Tap a headline to view metadata and excerpt fields in Sportra, then use the article website button to continue on the original publisher page.
The speeches had been made, and the ribbon cut, at a new mini-pitch a mile from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Now the mayor and soccer officials were giving interviews. Steve Davis — a former Dallas Morning News sportswriter, longtime FC Dallas radio analyst, now Director of Legacy Programs for FIFA World Cup 26 Dallas […] The post Steve Davis on the World Cup’s North Texas legacy: ‘Celebrate the game, build confidence and community’ appeared first on Soccer America.
His recovery comes at a crucial point for both Pulisic and Milan, with new head coach Ruben Amorim preparing for the opening weeks of the Serie A campaign and hoping to get one of his most talented attackers back to full fitness. Christian Pulisic is edging closer to his return for Milan, but the American winger’s comeback is being handled with caution after a difficult summer. His recovery comes at a crucial point for both Pulisic and Milan, with new head coach Ruben Amorim preparing for the opening weeks of the Serie A campaign and hoping to get one of his most talented attackers back to full fitness. The American has been sidelined since the United States’ World Cup exit against Belgium in July. The 27-year-old suffered a bone bruise and microfracture around his lower leg after colliding with Youri Tielemans while attempting to strike the ball, bringing a frustrating end to a tournament in which he had already battled another injury. The latest development has provided Milan with a major boost, as Pulisic returned to partial team training at Milanello. He completed part of the session, including speed and agility exercises, marking his first significant involvement with the squad since the World Cup injury. The American had missed Milan’s entire preseason while recovering, leaving him behind the rest of Amorim’s squad in terms of match fitness. Although Pulisic is understood to have recovered physically, the Rossoneri are taking a measured approach rather than rushing him back into competitive action. View this post on Instagram That cautious approach means the winger is reportedly expected to miss Milan’s Serie A opener against Torino. The club’s medical and coaching staff believe he still needs time to rebuild his fitness after more than six weeks away from regular soccer. When could Pulisic return? The current plan points toward a later return, with Pulisic potentially being included for Milan’s first home league match against Venezia on August 28, La Gazzetta dello Sport reports. The possibility of appearing from the bench would represent a significant step forward after a summer dominated by injuries and disappointment. The timing would also give Pulisic several additional days to work on his conditioning and integrate into Amorim’s tactical plans. Rather than forcing him into the season opener, Milan appear prepared to wait until the American is sufficiently prepared to contribute. Pulisic’s latest injury came after he had already struggled with a calf problem during the World Cup. He aggravated that issue against Paraguay, missed the following match against Australia and later returned against Turkiye before starting the United States’ 2-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina. Christian Pulisic #10 of the United States reacts Pulisic has plenty to prove after difficult months The injury setback followed a frustrating period for Pulisic at club and international level. He endured a 19-game scoring drought for Milan, while his World Cup campaign ended with no goals after he had hoped to make a major impact on home soil. Pulisic admitted his disappointment following the United States’ elimination, writing on Instagram: “Tough to find the words. I want to start by saying thank you to everyone who believed. The support carried us all the way through.” The winger also acknowledged that the United States had fallen short of expectations, adding that he had wanted to deliver more for the national team. His focus now shifts back to San Siro, where he will have an opportunity to rebuild his momentum under a new manager.
It's that time of the year again - the transfer window is now open until September 1 and it's sure to be a busy period as clubs look to make big signings ahead of the new season.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema have shared the Saudi Pro League spotlight since their moves to the Middle East, but the latest development surrounding the Frenchman's future could take their rivalry in a completely unexpected direction. Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema have shared the Saudi Pro League spotlight since their moves to the Middle East, but the latest development surrounding the Frenchman’s future could take their rivalry in a completely unexpected direction. With Benzema’s position at Al-Hilal increasingly uncertain, a surprising Turkish destination has now emerged, potentially setting up a blockbuster reunion with another global superstar. Benzema’s future has become increasingly complicated after Al-Hilal began considering a major overhaul of its attacking options. The former Real Madrid captain remains productive, but his place in Simone Inzaghi’s plans is reportedly under serious scrutiny, creating uncertainty over where the 38-year-old will play next. Benzema joined Al-Hilal in January after ending his spell with Al-Ittihad, but his time in Riyadh could already be approaching an unexpected conclusion. The Frenchman has scored nine goals and provided five assists in 13 appearances for the Blue Waves, showing that his individual numbers remain impressive despite the doubts surrounding his future. The club is reportedly considering terminating his contract as it looks to reshape its squad and accommodate another high-profile striker. Harry Kane, Ollie Watkins and Victor Osimhen have all emerged as possible targets, with Inzaghi understood to want another center-forward for the new campaign. Karim Benzema of Al Hilal celebrates with his coach Simone Inzaghi The situation is complicated by Benzema’s contract, as the striker reportedly wants the full amount owed for the final year of his deal before agreeing to leave. That demand has made negotiations more difficult and could determine whether Al-Hilal can move ahead with its preferred attacking changes. Turkish Super Lig suddenly enters the Benzema race That uncertainty has now opened the door to the surprise development involving Trabzonspor, which has reportedly made contact regarding Benzema. According to Turkish journalist Yagız Sabuncuoglu, the club has inquired about the conditions required to sign the veteran striker while its discussions with Al-Hilal continue. “Trabzonspor inquired about the conditions for Karim Benzema, who wears the Al-Hilal shirt!” Sabuncuoglu reported on X (formerly Twitter). He added: “Trabzonspor has not yet reached an agreement in their discussions with Al-Hilal. As the process continues, Karim Benzema was offered to Trabzonspor, and simultaneous talks with the French star have begun!” Trabzonspor, Al-Hilal ile yaptığı görüşmelerde henüz anlaşmaya varamadı. Süreç devam ederken Karim Benzema, Trabzonspor'a önerildi ve Fransız yıldızla eşzamanlı görüşmeler başladı! https://t.co/1ssqyHDXON— Yağız Sabuncuoğlu (@yagosabuncuoglu) August 18, 2026 The move represents a major change in Trabzonspor’s transfer strategy, particularly because the club had failed to close a deal for Darwin Nunez. With those negotiations yet to produce an agreement, Benzema has emerged as an experienced alternative for the attack. Mohamed Salah could make the move even bigger The biggest twist is the possibility that Benzema could join Mohamed Salah at Trabzonspor, creating a remarkable attacking partnership if the negotiations progress. Salah reportedly joined the Turkish club on a free transfer after leaving Liverpool, signing a two-year contract on August 6. Mohamed Salah at Trabzonspor That would give the Claret-Blues two of the most recognizable forwards of their generation in the same attack. Salah’s arrival has already transformed the profile of the Turkish club, while Benzema would add Champions League experience, elite finishing and the pedigree of a former Ballon d’Or winner. However, the talks remain at an early stage, and there is currently no
The league has introduced a series of changes designed to make matches faster and reduce the amount of time lost to stoppages, with the new approach potentially changing how players manage substitutions, injuries and restarts. Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie are entering another important Serie A campaign with Milan and Juventus respectively, but the American stars will have something new to deal with once they step onto the pitch. The league has introduced a series of changes designed to make matches faster and reduce the amount of time lost to stoppages, with the new approach potentially changing how players manage substitutions, injuries and restarts. The changes arrive after a summer in which similar measures were trialed elsewhere in soccer, including at the 2026 World Cup. Serie A wants more soccer actually being played, while referees have also been given clearer instructions on player behavior and communication with officials. For Pulisic, who is looking to rediscover his best form with Milan after a difficult second half of last season, the changes could create a faster and more demanding environment. The American winger scored 10 Serie A goals before the turn of the year last season but then went through a prolonged scoring drought, making a strong response particularly important. McKennie enters the season after producing the best numbers of his Juventus career, having recorded nine goals and six assists in 52 appearances last campaign. His versatility means he could be particularly exposed to the substitution and injury-management changes, especially given how frequently he operates across different positions. Christian Pulisic #10 and Weston McKennie #8 of the United States celebrate a goal. The two Americans are also among the leading USMNT figures preparing for another major period with the national team. The new Serie A regulations could therefore have an impact beyond their club careers, particularly as players adjust to a quicker tempo and fewer opportunities to slow matches down. Serie A introduces stricter rules on time-wasting The biggest change concerns the amount of time players will have to restart play or leave the field. A substituted player must leave the pitch within 10 seconds after the substitution board is shown, while the countdown begins when the final board is displayed if several substitutions are made simultaneously. Throw-ins and goal kicks are also coming under greater scrutiny. Players will have five seconds to restart play, with a corner awarded to the opposition if a goalkeeper takes longer than five seconds to take a goal kick. The new rules also target situations involving injuries. A player who receives treatment on the field must remain off the pitch for one minute after play resumes, although goalkeepers are exempt from the provision. Former Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri embrace his player Rafael Leao Serie A’s leadership believes these changes can make a significant difference to the spectacle. “Many of the changes introduced will concern situations where play is stopped, with the aim of increasing the effective playing time of matches, making games even more dynamic and spectacular,” Serie A CEO Luigi De Siervo said, according to ANSA via CalcioMercato. Only captains can approach the referee Another major change concerns communication with officials. Only the designated captain will be allowed to approach the referee to complain or request explanations, meaning other players will have to stay away from confrontations. Daniele Orsato explained the reasoning behind the measure during the briefing attended by representatives from all 20 Serie A clubs. “The captain will be the figure representing the club on the pitch, and the referee will only refer to them,” Orsato said, according to CalcioMercato. Lautaro Martinez #10 of FC Internazionale Milano speaks with the match officials The refereeing authorities have also addressed the controversial gesture of covering the mouth d
Tab Ramos, who appeared in three World Cups, shared his assessment of head coach Mauricio Pochettino, Christian Pulisic, and the USMNT, stating that the team fell short of expectations at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Co-hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup gave the USMNT a historic advantage. However, the team couldn’t capitalize on home turf, and Tab Ramos has weighed in on how far Mauricio Pochettino and his squad fell short of expectations. During an exclusive interview with Bolavip, former U.S. midfielder Tab Ramos discussed the national team’s performance at the 2026 World Cup. He also analyzed the performances of the players, including Christian Pulisic. The three-time World Cup veteran was critical of the Stars and Stripes for failing to fulfill expectations during a once-in-a-generation opportunity on home soil. Tab Ramos critical of Mauricio Pochettino’s impact In 2024, U.S Soccer made a landmark hire by appointing Mauricio Pochettino as head coach. His top-tier European experience convinced many that better days were on the horizon, but the results failed to break new ground. Mauricio Pochettino, Head Coach of the United States. According to Ramos, Pochettino repeatedly asked fans and media to reserve judgment until the World Cup. Given Pochettino’s position as one of the world’s highest-paid international managers, merely matching the country’s standard Round of 16 exit was a disappointment. “In terms of the national team itself, I thought, in general, the national team had a good performance,” Ramos said. “I thought our first game against Paraguay was likely the best that any U.S. team has ever played at a World Cup, and I think that’s a very positive sign. However, in general, you have to judge the national team by results, and I think the results were just barely okay and really below the expectations.” Analyzing the USMNT’s World Cup performance Ramos backed his criticism with detailed tactical analysis rather than superficial claims. He pointed out that the team’s inconsistency during the tournament mirrored their form over the previous 18 months, making the early knockout departure a predictable outcome. “Well, I mean, it seems like going to the Round of 16 is the norm for our country here, regardless of the coach that we have,” he said. “And so, because we brought in Mauricio Pochettino, and he’s one of the highest-paid national team coaches in the world and obviously he has incredible experience overseas, our expectations were a little bit higher than getting to the same place we always get. “We waited for two years in the beginning of Pochettino’s era, as we didn’t get good results. He kept saying, ‘Well, we’ve got to wait for the World Cup. We have to wait for the World Cup.’ And we waited for the World Cup, but in the end, we ended up getting the same results as always. So, in general, I’d have to say this World Cup was below expectations.” The criticism toward Christian Pulisic through the eyes of Tab Ramos Christian Pulisic was among the marquee players who received the most criticism during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The AC Milan winger was unable to dominate matches to the extent fans had hoped, but Tab Ramos believes such scrutiny is entirely normal for a player of his standing. “Well, I think criticism is fair. This is what this game is about, right? I’m sure there were some people who thought that because we played well in the first-round games that the full performance was good enough. And then there’s going to be people that are going to say, ‘Well, that’s not good enough. I think we got to the same place as other World Cups.’”
Newcastle United have been in touch over a possible deal for AC Milan striker Christopher Nkunku, who has turned down Galatasaray. The post ‘Contacts In These Hours’ – Newcastle United In To Take Advantage As Star Rejects Move appeared first on Inside Futbol | Latest Football News, Transfer Rumours & Articles.
Newcastle United have stepped up their search for an experienced midfielder by opening discussions with Manchester City over a possible deal for Nico Gonzalez. The Magpies have been forced into a major midfield rebuild following the summer departures of Bruno Guimaraes to Arsenal and Sandro Tonali to Tottenham. Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as […] The post Newcastle United open exploratory talks to sign £52m Man City player appeared first on CaughtOffside.
Cardiff striker Roko Simic is close to joining Magdeburg after the clubs reached an agreement in principle, but the deal is ‘not done’ yet. The post ‘Reached An Agreement’ – Cardiff City Close To Signing Off On Deal appeared first on Inside Futbol | Latest Football News, Transfer Rumours & Articles.
Tap a headline to view metadata and excerpt fields in Sportra, then use the article website button to continue on the original publisher page.
