Mauricio Pochettino has emerged as a top contender to become the next coach of the US Men’s National Team (USMNT).
The former Chelsea, PSG, and Tottenham coach has gained favor within US Soccer, according to reports, with the organization currently in talks with his camp.
The USMNT coaching position became vacant after Gregg Berhalter’s dismissal in July, following the team’s disappointing Copa America campaign, which saw them exit in the group stage.
Jurgen Klopp was previously linked to the vacancy but declined to enter talks, opting to take a break from the game after leaving Liverpool.
Pochettino’s connection to Matt Crocker, the sporting director of U.S. soccer, is seen as a key factor in his candidacy. The two worked together during Pochettino’s time as Southampton coach, with Crocker leading the team’s academy.
Mauricio Pochettino is reportedly in talks to take over as the next coach of the USA team
Pochettino has an impressive coaching record, having led Southampton to an eighth-place finish in the Premier League before taking Tottenham to the 2019 Champions League final.
During his time at PSG, he coached some of the world’s top players, including Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, and Neymar, winning the French league title but ultimately being fired due to a lack of Champions League success.
The USMNT vacancy holds significant appeal, given the United States is set to host the next World Cup alongside Canada and Mexico.
DailyMail.Com columnist Tim Howard has already backed Pochettino for the role, citing his ability to instill a strong team identity and attacking flair.
The USMNT has a talented young squad, with players like Christian Pulisic, Folarin Balogun, Gio Reyna, and Tim Weah, but has underperformed under Berhalter.
The USA squad has an array of talented attackers, led by AC Milan star Christian Pulisic
Tyler Adams, one of the team’s key players, has called for a “ruthless” coach to take over, someone who can instill discipline and a clear playing style.
With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, unlocking the team’s potential will be crucial, and appointing a coach of Pochettino’s caliber would undoubtedly generate significant excitement around the team.