Mauricio Pochettino is preparing to make a decision on his future as head coach of the United States men's national team. The Argentine's current contract runs until the end of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, after which he will determine whether to remain in charge.
Pochettino, who took over in September 2024 with the objective of leading the United States through the home World Cup, guided the team to first place in Group D and its first knockout-stage victory in 24 years. However, the campaign ended with a 4-1 defeat to Belgium in the round of 16, prompting discussion over his future.
Despite that result, U.S. Soccer had already presented him with an offer to extend his contract through the 2030 World Cup before the tournament began. The coach, however, has consistently insisted that he would postpone any decision until after the competition.
U.S. Soccer remains confident
With the World Cup final between Argentina and Spain scheduled for Sunday at MetLife Stadium, Pochettino confirmed that his decision will come soon.
"Look, we're looking into it; we're analyzing it," Pochettino told Spanish outlet Cope. "I received an offer to stay on, so we'll see. We'll make a decision next week."
Following the United States' elimination, U.S. Soccer stated that discussions with the coach had been productive before the World Cup and would continue after both sides had time to reflect. The federation also expressed appreciation for Pochettino, his coaching staff, and everyone involved with the national team, while emphasizing there is still significant work to be done to reach its long-term goals.
Chief executive and secretary general JT Batson also confirmed that negotiations with Pochettino and his staff remain active, adding that the federation is encouraged by the ongoing conversations.
Several factors could shape the outcome
Although U.S. Soccer has openly expressed its desire to retain Pochettino, the coach has not publicly committed to staying beyond the expiration of his current deal. That has fueled uncertainty over whether he will continue leading the national team.
The article notes that finances may influence his decision. After previously managing Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, and Paris Saint-Germain, Pochettino accepted a significantly lower salary to coach at the international level, earning about $6 million annually with U.S. Soccer compared to the reported $13-14 million he received during his season at Chelsea.
At the same time, his approach with the players has suggested a genuine investment in the team's long-term development. Veteran captain Tim Ream said one of the squad's recurring discussions throughout the World Cup centered on inspiring more people in the United States to embrace soccer and strengthen support for both the national team and the sport. According to Ream, that objective became a driving force during the tournament, with Pochettino playing a central role in delivering that message.