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U.S. Men's National Team head coach Mauricio Pochettino's side is a win away from the knockout rounds -Credit:Jared C. Tilton - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images
Mauricio Pochettino may be leading the charge for the U.S. Men’s National Team at this summer’s FIFA World Cup, but the Argentine will always have one eye on his home nation and one of his former players in Lionel Messi.
Ahead of the USMNT’s second Group D game against Australia in Seattle, Washington, Pochettino spoke of his ongoing support for Argentina, whilst also taking the opportunity to send a message to their talismanic forward.
The Messi family released a statement on Thursday detailing the situation surrounding the 38-year-old’s father’s health. This came after rumors swirled following their 3-0 World Cup opener that Lionel’s emotional response to scoring his first of three goals against Algeria was down to Jorge’s declining health.
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Lionel Messi and Pochettino worked together at Paris Saint-Germain -Credit:Aurelien Meunier - PSG/PSG via Getty Images
“In response to the versions, rumors, and speculations that have circulated in recent hours, the family wishes to express its deep distress over the lack of sensitivity, respect, and scruples with which some people have treated a strictly private and family situation,” they wrote.
“The Messi family informs that Jorge is going through a health situation. At this time, he is under medical monitoring, recovering and evolving favorably within the condition he is presenting.
“The family also wishes to clarify that only its closest family members have real and accurate information about Jorge's condition. Therefore, any version, statement, or information that does not come from the family itself and its corresponding channels should not be considered valid or truthful.
“In moments like this, we ask for responsibility, prudence, and humanity. A person's health and the peace of mind of their surroundings should not be the object of speculation or irresponsible media interest.
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“We sincerely thank you for the displays of affection, respect, and concern received, and we request that the privacy, confidentiality, and intimacy of Jorge and his entire family be preserved during this process.
“Any relevant updates will be communicated in a timely manner by the family and the corresponding channels. Thank you for your understanding.”
Speaking with reporters prior to the USMNT’s game at Lumen Field, former Argentina international and Paris Saint-Germain boss Pochettino - where he worked with Lionel - the 54-year-old said, “I think the most important thing is being genuine and honest. I am Argentinian, and I really enjoy the performance of Argentina, but I'm going to give my life for the USA.
“I think it's difficult to describe Messi. Six World Cups, all that he achieved in his career, in different clubs, collectively and individually. He's the best. For sure, yes.
“I think it was amazing to see him. I want to send all my support because it's a difficult situation, family situation. I want to give my support. I know him from Paris and his family. I want to show and send my best wishes for his family.
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Lionel Messi was visibly emotional after scoring his first of three goals against Algeria -Credit:ROBERTO SCHMIDT, AFP via Getty Images
“Yes, Argentina is an amazing team. They won the World Cup four years ago. Now, every single player is a world champion. The coach, Lionel, is for me the best coach today in this World Cup. The coaching staff, the staff that I know very well. The fans, amazing. And then with their cherry [on top] with Messi. It's a difficult combination to play against.
“But now I am Argentinian, but I am defending the USA, and I'm going to give everything that I have, we have, to make great memories here.”
Following the USMNT’s excellent 4-1 win against Paraguay, Pochettino’s side can secure their spot in the Round of 32 with a win against Australia on Friday. As for Argentina, thanks to Messi’s hat trick, they too can book their spot in the next round with a win versus Austria on Monday.
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