Rumors are swirling that Mauricio Pochettino, the former manager of Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur, is on the verge of becoming the new head coach of the US Men’s National Team. This development follows the departure of Gregg Berhalter, who was let go after the team’s disappointing exit from the Copa América earlier this year.
Renowned football journalist Fabrizio Romano hinted at this news, stating, “Mauricio Pochettino is set to lead the USMNT and guide them to the World Cup 2026. After considering various candidates, the ex-Chelsea and Spurs boss has reportedly accepted the challenge and the vision for the team’s future in the US overnight.”
The Athletic has also lent credibility to the reports, confirming that Pochettino “has accepted the offer to become the next coach of the US men’s national soccer team.”
This appointment signifies a significant moment for US Soccer as they secure a highly respected manager with a remarkable history at the club level. Pochettino’s achievements include leading Southampton to an impressive eighth-place finish in the Premier League, achieving notable league positions with Tottenham Hotspur, culminating in a memorable Champions League final appearance in 2019, and clinching a Ligue 1 title with Paris Saint-Germain.
Notably, he most recently steered Chelsea to a commendable sixth-place finish with European qualification in the 2023-24 season.
Although Pochettino has no prior experience managing a national team, his selection aligns with the ambitious vision of US Soccer. As per The Athletic, Matt Crocker, the sporting director of U.S. Soccer, has underscored the federation’s dedication to securing top-tier talent, affirming, “It’s a key priority. It’s an area where we’re willing to invest and already planning on investing.”
Interestingly, Crocker and Pochettino share a connection from their time at Southampton, where Crocker oversaw the club’s academy while Pochettino was in charge.
Pochettino is renowned for his tactical prowess, which focuses on positional play, spatial dominance, and an aggressive pressing style.
With this new appointment, a fresh chapter opens for the USMNT as they gear up for the 2026 World Cup, which the United States is set to co-host with Canada and Mexico.