Mauricio Pochettino Set to Take Helm of US National Soccer Team
Former Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino is reportedly poised to become the new head coach of the United States men’s national soccer team. Multiple sources, including The Athletic and ESPN, have indicated that Pochettino has agreed to terms with US Soccer, though a formal contract has yet to be signed.
The 52-year-old Argentine coach would replace Gregg Berhalter, taking charge of the team as it prepares to co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside Mexico and Canada. Pochettino’s appointment comes after his recent departure from Chelsea, where he led the club to a sixth-place finish in the Premier League during his sole season at the helm.
Before his stint at Chelsea, Pochettino had successful tenures with Paris Saint-Germain and Tottenham Hotspur, building a reputation for developing young talent and implementing an attractive, high-pressing style of play.
Reports suggest that the deal was reached following extensive discussions with US Soccer Federation technical director Matt Crocker. However, the federation’s board of directors has not yet officially approved the agreement, and Pochettino is unable to sign a contract until resolving financial matters with Chelsea.
If the appointment is finalized, Pochettino is expected to lead the US team in a friendly match against Canada on September 7 in Kansas City. This high-profile hiring signals US Soccer’s ambition to elevate the national team’s performance and profile ahead of the 2026 World Cup on home soil.
