Messi Faces Family Hardship, Pochettino Reaches Out to Argentina Captain for 2026 World Cup

USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino has expressed his support for Argentina captain Lionel Messi after the Argentine star’s hat‑trick against Algeria in the World Cup.

Pochettino said that Messi is facing a difficult family situation, noting that the Inter Miami forward’s father, Jorge, is under medical observation.

The former Paris Saint‑Germain manager spoke to the media on Friday, ahead of the United States’ World Cup match against Australia.

"I want to send all my support because he’s in a difficult family situation. I know him and his family from Paris. I want to send my best wishes to his family," Pochettino said.

He added, "It’s difficult to describe Messi. Six World Cups, and all he has achieved in his career at different clubs. He is the best. It was amazing to see [Messi score a hat‑trick]."

Pochettino coached Messi during their time together at PSG in the French Ligue 1.