Mauricio Pochettino, a highly respected figure in European football, has agreed to become the next head coach of the U.S. Men’s National Soccer Team (USMNT), a major development ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which the U.S. will co-host with Canada and Mexico. The news was first reported by The Athletic.
Who is Mauricio Pochettino?
Pochettino, a 52-year-old Argentinian, is widely regarded as one of the best managers in European football. As a former player, he was a competitive center-back who left Argentina at 22 to join Espanyol in Spain. He also played briefly for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Bordeaux in France before returning to Espanyol to end his playing career. Pochettino represented Argentina at the 2002 World Cup and earned 20 caps for his national team.
He began his coaching career at Espanyol in 2009, where he quickly earned a reputation for playing high-pressing football and revitalizing the team. His success there led to a move to Southampton in the English Premier League in 2013, where he continued to impress with his energetic style of play. The following year, he took over as manager of Tottenham Hotspur, where he led the team to new heights, including a Champions League final in 2018-19.
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Pochettino later managed PSG, winning both a French Cup and a Ligue 1 title, and spent the last season as Chelsea’s head coach, leading them to a sixth-place finish in the Premier League and a spot in the Carabao Cup final.
How significant is this for the USMNT?
Landing Pochettino is a significant coup for the USMNT. He is one of the most respected coaches in European football, with a track record far more impressive than any previous U.S. men’s team coach. Comparisons have been drawn to Jürgen Klinsmann, who coached the USMNT from 2011 to 2016, but Pochettino’s experience in European club football far exceeds that of Klinsmann.
Why would Pochettino take an international job?
Pochettino has always had a deep appreciation for the history and significance of the World Cup, which he considers the pinnacle of football. He has expressed a desire to manage at a World Cup and has been open to the possibility of doing so with a team other than Argentina. The opportunity to coach the U.S. team on home soil during the 2026 World Cup is a unique and exciting challenge for him.
What kind of football does Pochettino favor?
Pochettino is known for his aggressive, high-pressing style of football. His teams are structured to dominate possession and press their opponents high up the pitch, aiming to win the ball back quickly after losing it. His style of play requires physical relentlessness and tactical discipline, qualities that have brought him success at the club level.
How will his methods translate to international football?
While fitness is a crucial element of Pochettino’s approach, the international football schedule provides limited time for coaches to work with their players. This could make it challenging for him to implement his methods fully. However, Pochettino has a strong track record of developing young players, and he will likely focus on nurturing a new generation of talent within the USMNT.
How will he handle the scrutiny of the role?
Pochettino is no stranger to the media spotlight, having managed high-profile clubs like PSG and Chelsea. However, the intensity of international football, especially with the U.S. hosting the World Cup, will bring a different level of attention. Pochettino will need to quickly familiarize himself with the U.S. soccer landscape and demonstrate a commitment to developing the national team.
What does this mean for the USMNT’s chances in the 2026 World Cup?
Predicting success in international tournaments is always difficult, but Pochettino’s arrival brings fresh ideas, energy, and a proven track record to the U.S. team. His experience and tactical acumen could significantly boost the team’s performance as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup on home soil. While international football differs from the club game, Pochettino’s appointment is a reason for optimism among U.S. soccer fans.
