DaMarcus Beasley: U.S. Soccer Legend Talks Messi’s Legacy, MLS Growth, and Pochettino’s Impact on USMNT
DaMarcus Beasley, a U.S. Soccer Hall of Famer and TNT analyst, has spent a lifetime immersed in the beautiful game. With 126 caps for the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) and a two-decade professional career spanning Europe, Mexico, and Major League Soccer (MLS), Beasley’s insights carry weight. In a recent conversation on Mic’d Up, he shared his perspective on the state of soccer in the U.S., the progress of MLS, and the future of the national team under Mauricio Pochettino.
Mauricio Pochettino: The Right Man at the Right Time
Beasley has closely observed Mauricio Pochettino, the new USMNT head coach, as he takes the reins of a talent-packed squad. Known for his tactical acumen and ability to connect with players, Pochettino seems poised to lead the team toward success.
“I’m really intrigued to see what he can do with the squad leading up to the World Cup,” Beasley remarked. “He’s working with some incredible talent, and his adjustments on the pitch show he’s the right man for the job.”
The USMNT faces high expectations as it prepares for the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted on home soil. Under Pochettino, Beasley sees potential for a team that can compete at the highest level, particularly with rising stars like Antonee Robinson and other young talents.
MLS: A League on the Rise
Reflecting on MLS, Beasley is optimistic about the league’s growth and its increasing global recognition. “The league is in a good moment. It’s still growing… they’re adding another team with San Diego,” he noted, referencing MLS’s continued expansion.
The arrival of international superstars like Lionel Messi has elevated the league’s profile. There’s even speculation about more marquee names, with Kevin De Bruyne rumored to be considering a move and whispers of Neymar potentially reuniting with his former Barcelona teammates at Inter Miami. “It’s raising the standard of the league,” Beasley acknowledged.
However, challenges remain. Beasley pointed out the restrictive salary cap as a significant barrier to further progress, limiting how much MLS teams can invest in their rosters. Additionally, the eventual retirement of Messi looms as a pivotal moment. “Figuring out what comes next is tricky,” Beasley admitted. “But there’s still plenty of room for optimism.”
Post-Playing Life and Reflections
Now five years into retirement, Beasley has embraced his role as an analyst and ambassador for the game. He’s witnessed firsthand how soccer in the U.S. has evolved over the years, from grassroots development to the professional ranks. As someone who’s played in every corner of the soccer world, Beasley is well-positioned to evaluate where the sport is heading.
“There’s excitement everywhere,” he said, emphasizing the potential for MLS and USMNT to continue their upward trajectory.
Looking Ahead
As the USMNT gears up for the World Cup and MLS navigates its post-Messi era, Beasley remains optimistic about the future of soccer in the United States. Whether it’s Pochettino’s leadership, the arrival of global stars, or the steady rise of homegrown talent, the pieces are in place for American soccer to thrive.
Beasley’s belief is clear: every game, every decision, and every investment matters in shaping the future of the sport. With figures like him lending their voice and experience, U.S. soccer seems poised to make the most of its opportunities.
