Mauricio Pochettino has extended his support to Lionel Messi amid personal struggles. The USMNT coach made the remarks before America's World Cup fixture against Australia on Friday.
Messi's father, Jorge, is currently receiving medical care. Pochettino, who managed the Argentina captain at Paris Saint-Germain, felt compelled to reach out publicly.
"I want to send all my support because he's in a difficult family situation," Pochettino told reporters. "I know him and his family from Paris.
I want to send my best wishes to his family," he added.
Pochettino's comments followed Messi's stunning hat-trick performance against Algeria in World Cup action. He praised the Inter Miami forward's extraordinary career achievements across multiple clubs.
"It's difficult to describe Messi," the American coach noted. "Six World Cups, and all he has achieved.
He is the best. It was amazing to see him score a hat-trick."
Their connection runs deep from their PSG partnership in France's top division. Pochettino understands the weight Messi carries both on and off the pitch.
