Japanese Manager Gives Verdict on USMNT Players’ MLS Careers

The United States Men’s National Team put on a strong performance at Lower.com Field in Columbus, Ohio, winning 2-0 against Japan in an international friendly on September 9, 2025. Alejandro Zendejas and Folarin Balogun found the back of the net, with Balogun getting a nice assist from Christian Pulisic. This win was just what Mauricio Pochettino’s team needed, especially after that tough loss to South Korea a few days ago.

Even though the outcome gave a boost to the American team, it was really Hajime Moriyasu, Japan’s manager, who surprised everyone with his comments after the match, praising the talent in Major League Soccer.

Soccer analyst Favian Renkel shared on X that Moriyasu gave his thoughts on the USMNT players after the match, especially pointing out the influence of those playing in MLS. The Japanese manager made a straightforward comparison, saying, “Pulisic and Balogun…players from the big five leagues…I think the players in MLS played on the same standard.”

It’s some high praise considering Christain Pulisic has spent most of his career in Europe playing for the likes of Borussia Dortmund, Chelsea and now AC Milan, and Folarin Balogun with AS Monaco. Players such as Maximilian Arfsten from the Columbus Crew, who set up the opening goal with a fantastic assist, and seasoned defender Tim Ream really showed the quality that Moriyasu talked about.

Their performances, along with others, showed off a solid tactical understanding and technical skill that totally shut down the Japanese team, resulting in a clean sheet and a smooth victory. But after the game, the USMNT coach made a direct message to the naysayers.

The USMNT coach refused to hold back

After the USMNT’s 2–0 victory against Japan, striker Folarin Balogun gave a shoutout to head coach Mauricio Pochettino for leading the team’s comeback. He said, “We’re building something big here with a top coach, and it takes time. He tried to emphasize that to us — to be patient — but at the end of the day, the result is the most important thing so I’m happy we were able to get it today.” You can really see how the players are getting on board with the coach’s long-term vision.

Pochettino had a tough time earlier when fans were upset about a string of poor performances, particularly after that loss to South Korea that really shook things up for them. After the win against Japan, he made a clear request: direct any criticism at him, not the players. “I prefer that the people criticize me, but don’t touch the player. I hope in the future, criticize me, criticize me, but let the player play free, go and perform,” Pochettino mentioned in the post-match press conference.

This win—and all the buzz around it—comes after a lot of growing pressures. However, Pochettino stood by his long-term plan, emphasizing that the key focus is to be at their best for the 2026 World Cup, which the U.S. will be co-hosting. Winning against Japan really lifted everyone’s spirits, showing that focusing on the process, sticking together, and giving thoughtful feedback pays off.