Mauricio Pochettino has left the door open for Lionel Messi’s sons to represent the USMNT, but admits they have the “Argentine blood” of their father.
Mauricio Pochettino, currently leading the United States men’s national team, has been based in Miami while preparing his squad for a strong 3-1 friendly victory over Venezuela. The experienced Argentine coach has quickly adapted to his new role, guiding his players through preparations in a city that has recently become a football hotspot. Miami is also home to Lionel Messi, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner who continues to dominate Major League Soccer with Inter Miami.
Messi’s oldest son, Thiago, has already shown promise as part of Inter Miami’s academy system, while his younger brothers, Mateo and Ciro, have also displayed interest in the sport. With football in their blood, the Messi children are eligible to play for Argentina through their parents, Lionel and Antonela, while their birth in Barcelona grants them the option to represent Spain. If the family decides to settle permanently in the U.S., American citizenship could open the door for them to represent the USMNT someday.
When asked about the possibility of the Messi children playing for the United States, Pochettino said: “It’s an idea worth exploring, but realistically, I’ll probably be too old to still be coaching by the time they’re ready for the senior team. Still, it’s an interesting thought—why not?”
He added: “Considering they’re Leo’s kids, with Argentine blood and heritage, I think it would be extremely difficult to convince them to represent the U.S.”
Thiago Messi has also addressed the matter himself. In June 2024, he told Mundo Deportivo: “I want to play for the Argentine team, and I don’t think there’s any way the Spanish team can change my mind.”
As things stand, it seems the Messi legacy will remain tied to Argentina, though the footballing world will undoubtedly watch their journey closely.
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