Pochettino names Adams as USMNT captain

He added in a statement to journalists: "I am happy to announce, and I want everyone to know, that he will be our captain."

He continued: "We have had a very good relationship over the past three years, and I think he knows what I expect from him. He is a perfect role model for everyone in the way he can transmit the philosophy, the culture, and represent this wonderful country."

He added: "He is the player capable of leading the next phase ahead of us."

Adams, the Bournemouth midfielder, is considered one of the most experienced figures in the US squad.

The 27-year-old previously captained the United States at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar under former coach Gregg Berhalter.

Pochettino had chosen veteran defender Tim Ream as captain for the World Cup held this year in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Ream announced his retirement from international football earlier this week.

Adams, who will wear the captain's armband in Saturday's match against Mexico, said: "I want to lead this group toward a winning culture."

The midfielder added that he believes he has gained more experience since captaining the US team at the 2022 World Cup.

He said: "In 2022, we were of course a very young team, and I think we were among the youngest teams at the World Cup. Even though I was ready for that role, at the same time I was able to develop on and off the pitch during the period following that and up until now."

He added: "Getting the captain's armband doesn't change anything for me in terms of being a leader or a different person than who I am. I will remain the exact same person."