Episode 30 | Jesús Pérez (USMNT Assistant Coach)

 A behind-the-scenes look at elite preparation, mindset, and what young players can learn from the highest level of the game. About This EpisodeIn Episode 30 of The Soccer Ladder, we are joined by Jesús Pérez (@jpp_71), assistant coach of the U.S. Men’s National Team (@usmnt) and longtime collaborator of head coach Mauricio Pochettino (@pochettino).With the next World Cup on the horizon, Jesús Pérez shares what elite tournament preparation truly looks like behind the scenes — and why this U.S. team genuinely believes it can compete to win it.From passion and commitment at the highest level to youth development, parenting advice, and the importance of unstructured play, this episode delivers a powerful perspective for players and families navigating today’s game.In This EpisodeHow Jesús Pérez transitioned from aspiring player to elite coachThe impact of sports science on his coaching philosophyWhat makes his 15-year partnership with Mauricio Pochettino workWhat fans don’t see during major tournament preparationWhy no one truly knows the final roster until the last momentThe two qualities Jesús Pérez values most in USMNT players: passion + commitmentHow to reduce the gap between your best version and your worst versionThe potential impact of hosting a World Cup in the U.S.Advice for 12–15-year-old players dreaming of the national teamWhy staying close to family matters during early developmentHonest thoughts on rushing careers and early moves abroadClear advice for parents: be a parent, not the coachWinning vs. development — and why competitive mentality still mattersWhy young players should stop worrying about moneyWhy kids need more unstructured, free playRapid fire: the one word that defines a World Cup playerKey Takeaways✔ Passion and commitment separate elite players✔Consistency matters more than occasional brilliance✔Stay close to family during foundational years✔Free play builds creativity that structured training cannot✔Parents should support — not coach from the sidelines✔Winning and development can coexistConnectJesús Pérez 📸 Instagram: @jpp_71U.S. Men’s National Team 📸 Instagram: @usmntMauricio Pochettino 📸 Instagram: @pochettino🎙 Hosted by @meganlinkeofficial & @liamlinke18 🎧 Listen now on The Soccer Ladder