Mauricio Pochettino, the former manager of Chelsea, is poised to take the reins of the United States men’s national soccer team. Multiple reports from the United States indicate that the Argentine manager has agreed to lead the team into the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the US, Mexico, and Canada.
Pochettino’s arrival is anticipated to be swift, with him expected to be in place as the team’s coach in time for their September 7th match against Canada in Kansas City, Kansas. This appointment comes after a tumultuous period for the US men’s team, who have been without a coach since Gregg Berhalter was dismissed in July. Berhalter’s departure followed a disappointing early exit from the Copa America on home soil, marking the end of his second term as head coach.
Pochettino joined Chelsea at the start of the 2023-24 season, replacing interim manager Frank Lampard as the new owners sought to revitalize the club after a disappointing 12th-place finish the previous season. He signed a two-year contract with an option for a third year, but his tenure at Stamford Bridge proved to be turbulent. Despite a late rally that saw Chelsea secure a sixth-place finish and European football for the upcoming season, Pochettino ultimately left the club.
Now, Pochettino faces the challenge of guiding the US men’s national team through the qualifying process for the 2026 World Cup and ultimately aiming for success on home soil. His experience managing top-level clubs in England, coupled with his reputation for developing young talent, could prove valuable as he attempts to build a team capable of contending on the world stage.
