[Saba Sports News] Mauricio Pochettino, the Argentine head coach of the United States national football team, said in a recent interview that he does not sing the US national anthem, yet he will do his utmost to represent the country through sport. “I represent the United States purely through football, and that is what I am paid to do. For instance, I will not sing along to the national anthem. Still, I will give my all to stand for this nation with dignity,” Pochettino remarked. He also stated that he intends to keep the team out of political debates surrounding the US government. “We are all aware of injustices across the world. No one wants violence, and everyone wishes for happiness and enough food for all. But our job is to prepare the team for the World Cup.” Pochettino expressed his hope that the World Cup can “inspire positive feelings”. He noted that their mission is to unite people rather than fuel hostility. Coaches and players ought to spread messages of solidarity, not division.
The editor believes that football unites people of diverse cultures, religions and ethnicities, and fosters goodwill among humanity.