Pochettino to take over USMNT dugout ahead of 2026 World Cup

After what was considered a sub-par performance at the 2024 Copa America, it appears that the US Men’s National Team (USMNT) have zeroed in on their new head coach. According to David Ornstein, Mauricio Pochettino has agreed to take charge of the Stars and Stripes as they look to make significant improvements ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, being hosted by the USA, Canada and Mexico.

This comes after USA crashed out of their 5th Copa America campaign in disastrous fashion, which led to the dismissal of head coach Gregg Berhalter. The appointment of Pochettino is significant for fans of the USMNT, as it makes the former Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspurs, PSG and Southampton boss the most high profile appointment since Jurgen Klinsmann. However, while Klinsmann’s fame came from his World Cup win as a player in 1990, Pochettino has established his credentials as a manager, winning the Ligue 1 with PSG and guiding Tottenham Hotspurs to a Champions League Final.

While Pochettino has now reportedly agreed to the job, rumors also indicated former Liverpool FC boss Jurgen Klopp to be in the running. Pochettino’s appointment brings him back together with Matt Crocker, now the sporting director of US Soccer, with the pair having worked together at Southampton. Pochettino was always a front runner for the job, with The Athletic citing sources last week claiming that he was favorite among a host of names.

The USMNT is currently experiencing something of a Golden Generation of soccer players, led by their young captain and AC Milan star Christian Pulisic. Pochettino will have a host of young, talented players to call up, and two years to tweak the team to his liking. The appointment will, however, not be cheap. According to reports, he was one of the highest paid coaches in world football at PSG and Chelsea, and will likely ask for a salary in tune with his previous appointments.