One by one, a procession of U.S. men’s national team players broke from their normal pre-training routines to give Jozy Altidore a hug. Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, Tim Ream — they were all eager to acknowledge the USMNT legend, who is the third leading scorer in program history, trailing only Clint Dempsey and Landon Donovan. Altidore watched coach Mauricio Pochettino put the Americans through their final practice before the Nov. 18 Concacaf Nations League quarterfinal win over Jamaica in St. Louis.
It wasn’t just players. Pochettino himself walked over and warmly greeted his old friend and rival. “Mauricio hasn’t changed one bit,” Altidore said of the new U.S. boss, referencing their clashes in England’s Premier League.
“He’s an incredible guy, and it was really nice of him to come over and go down memory lane, to talk about the battles we had, and about the national team, too.”
Like most USMNT alums, Altidore is a huge fan of his former squad. Across the street at City Park the next night, Altidore got another warm reception, joining the American Outlaws during the match.
Altidore was the Americans’ starting striker at the 2010 World Cup, and again in 2014. He’s seen as a bridge between the past USMNT era and the current squad.
“I just love the hunger Pepi plays with,” Altidore remarked about Ricardo Pepi, who impressed during recent games.
At nearly 35, Altidore has opted for a quieter life after football, focusing on his new business, Sogility, specializing in soccer training facilities.
Overall, Altidore is pleased with the trajectory of the current USMNT, acknowledging the challenges that come with competing internationally.
Christian Pulisic is a ’terrific human being,’ Altidore insists, refuting recent criticism aimed at him regarding his celebratory dance. He stated, “I’ve known him since he was 17, and I haven’t met a better guy representing the national team.”
Altidore welcomes Pulisic’s growing success, noting their shared journey as players navigating challenging circumstances abroad.
