Adams said Pochettino’s plan had a clear framework, but not rigid instructions. “He has a structure of the way that he wants to play, but by no means are you pinned to your position,” the midfielder explained.
That approach appears to have suited a United States side built around movement, with attacking players drifting inside and midfielders covering changing spaces. Adams described the team’s best performances using three words: “fluidity”, “flexibility” and “versatility”.
The system’s success, however, depended on the players maintaining their identity when matches became chaotic.
The reported 4-1 last-16 defeat by Belgium provided the clearest counterpoint. Adams admitted the United States failed to control the contest in the way they had earlier in the tournament.
“Against Belgium, I just don't think we played our game,” Adams said. “It felt like against Belgium, we were just kind of chasing things and it didn't feel like us.”
That assessment gives Pochettino and his players a useful question for the next cycle: how can tactical freedom be preserved without allowing the team’s distances and defensive responsibilities to unravel?
Adams’ reflection was not limited to the exit. The United States’ reported win over Paraguay, the entertaining meeting with Turkey and Malik Tillman’s knockout-stage free-kicks formed part of a campaign that created a stronger connection with supporters.
Adams recalled the squad singing “Country Roads” with fans after the reported 2-0 group-stage win over Australia in Seattle. He said the moment showed the country was “really bought in at that point”.
That connection now extends beyond the pitch. Adams has opened a mini-pitch at Sandtown Park in South Fulton, Georgia, the latest project in an effort to provide children in underserved communities with space to play and grow.
The next storyline will be whether Adams can help shape the United States’ next tournament team while continuing to turn that enthusiasm into lasting access at grassroots level.