'Why not?' - Mauricio Pochettino opens door for Lionel Messi's sons to represent the USMNT with Argentina & Inter Miami superstar now based in Florida

Pochettino is currently calling the shots as head coach of the United States men's national team and has been based in Miami while readying his troops for a 3-1 friendly victory over Venezuela. Eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi calls Florida home at present as he continues to star for MLS side Inter Miami.

His oldest son, Thiago, is part of the Herons’ academy system, while Mateo and Ciro Messi have shown an interest in the profession that has made their father a global superstar. They qualify for Argentina through their parents Lionel and Antonela, while also being eligible for Spain having been born in Barcelona.

Citizenship in America could be sought at some stage, if the Messis decide to set up a permanent base there, but Pochettino has said when asked if Thiago and Co could be tempted to represent the USMNT at some stage: “Well, we could talk. The thing is, maybe I’ll be too old by the time the kids are ready for the senior national team. I likely won’t be there, but sure, it would be interesting—why not?”

He added: “Considering they’re Leo’s children, with Argentine blood running through their veins, I think it would be difficult to convince them to play for the United States.”

Thiago Messi has previously addressed his dual nationality, telling Mundo Deportivo in June 2024 of where his allegiances lie: “I want to play with the Argentine team and I don't think there is any way the Spanish team can convince me.”