SouthernWorldwide.com – Tim Ream has been officially named captain of the U.S. men’s national team for the upcoming World Cup.
The announcement was made by manager Mauricio Pochettino on Saturday morning at the U.S. Soccer National Training Center in Fayetteville, Georgia.
Ream, a 38-year-old center-back, has a significant history wearing the captain’s armband under Pochettino. He has led the team in 16 out of 23 matches during Pochettino’s tenure, including their first game against Panama on October 12, 2024, in Austin, Texas.
“I am so grateful that he’s with us, because he’s a great captain not only on the field, but maybe more importantly, off the field,” Pochettino stated during a press conference held near Atlanta.
Pochettino highlighted Ream’s experience and leadership qualities. He emphasized Ream’s capacity to be the positive leader the team desires.
The manager further elaborated on Ream’s ability to connect with his teammates. He described Ream as an “amazing voice” and expressed how fortunate they are to have a player with his personality and character.
Ream, who is the oldest player on the USA’s 26-man roster, appeared genuinely surprised by the captaincy announcement, despite his extensive experience.
“Wow,” Ream responded. “This is more than a dream come true. I’ve done everything possible to be a part of this group, to help this group along.”
He expressed deep gratitude for the honor of sitting there and acknowledged that the role would not change his approach or his commitment to the team.
Ream extended his thanks to Pochettino, emphasizing that this is “the highest honor for me” and that he would “not take that for granted.”
Pochettino clarified that the decision to name Ream captain was his own, not a result of a player vote. He stated it was his individual choice.
Even before the official announcement, Ream was widely recognized as a leader within the squad. Alex Freeman, a fellow defender and the youngest player on the roster at 21, had previously mentioned that he consistently learns from Ream and seeks his advice.
Four years prior, Tyler Adams, then 23, was named captain for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. He demonstrated remarkable maturity and composure in the role.
Adams’ absence from the captaincy this summer does not diminish his leadership influence on the team. The current squad features several players who could effectively lead.
“Listen, it’s a privilege and an honor for anyone who gets to wear the armband,” Adams told reporters earlier in the week, prior to Ream’s designation.
He added that his personal leadership style is evident to anyone who plays with him, regardless of whether he wears the armband. He stated that this has been his approach throughout his career.
Ream boasts an impressive 15-year tenure with the national team, having made his debut on November 17, 2010. He has earned 80 caps and scored one goal.
During the 2022 World Cup, Ream played every minute of the U.S. team’s matches.
The U.S. men’s national team will participate in two tune-up friendlies in the coming week. They are scheduled to face Senegal in Charlotte on Sunday, followed by a match against Germany in Chicago on Saturday, June 6.
Following these friendlies, the team will travel to their World Cup base camp located in Irvine, California.
The tournament will commence with the U.S. team competing in Group D. Their opening match is against Paraguay in Los Angeles on June 12.
They will then play Australia in Seattle on June 19.
The final group stage match for the U.S. will be against Türkiye, also in Los Angeles, on June 25.
