Mauricio Pochettino Announced As New USMNT Head Coach

Mauricio Pochettino Announced As New USMNT Head Coach

The U.S. Soccer Federation announced Mauricio Pochettino as the U.S. Men’s National Team’s new head coach Tuesday. His contract will run through the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which the U.S., Mexico, and Canada are co-hosting.

Pochettino is regarded as one of the best managers in the world, having stints with elite clubs like Tottenham, PSG and, most recently, Chelsea. Now, he will lead the USMNT as they look to have a memorable World Cup run on home soil.

“Mauricio is a serial winner with a deep passion for player development and a proven ability to build cohesive and competitive teams,” U.S. Soccer Sporting Director Matt Crocker said. “His track record speaks for itself, and I am confident that he is the right choice to harness the immense potential within our talented squad. We are thrilled to have Mauricio on board as we embark on this exciting journey to achieve success on the global stage.”

It had been reported a few weeks ago that Pochettino had agreed to take the USMNT head coaching job after positive conversations with Crocker, who Pochettino worked with when he was the manager of Southampton. This put an end to a lengthy coaching search following Gregg Berhalter’s dismissal after a dismal Copa America performance earlier this summer, but it was not official until Tuesday.

Pochettino’s hiring brings a level of excitement that no other head coach signing has due to his pedigree in the world game. In addition to managing some of the best clubs in the world, he has a track record of getting the best out of his players and building successful teams, something that the USMNT needs heading into the World Cup.

“The decision to join U.S. Soccer wasn’t just about football for me; it’s about the journey that this team and this country are on,” Pochettino said. “The energy, the passion, and the hunger to achieve something truly historic here — those are the things that inspired me. The opportunity to lead the U.S. Men’s National Team, in front of fans who are just as passionate as the players, is something I couldn’t pass up. I see a group of players full of talent and potential, and together, we’re going to build something special that the whole nation can be proud of.”

Pochettino’s first match in charge of the USMNT will be on Oct. 12 when the U.S. takes on Panama in Austin.

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