U.S. Soccer is engaged in active discussions with Mauricio Pochettino and his staff regarding his return as the coach of the men's national team, federation CEO J.T. Batson announced Thursday. Pochettino's contract concluded following the U.S. men's national team's elimination from the World Cup in the Round of 16, but the federation has indicated a desire to retain the Argentine manager.
Batson shared that Pochettino has been involved in planning for the under-23 team's participation in the 2028 Olympics, including discussions about hiring Steve Cherundolo to coach the squad. While Batson did not specify a timeline for a final decision or confirm if other candidates have been interviewed, this involvement signals Pochettino's potential interest in remaining with the team. "We're feeling good about where we are overall and we're looking forward to the discussions," Batson stated, noting that Pochettino and his staff have been actively participating in long-term planning.
Although many anticipated Pochettino's return to club management, particularly in the English Premier League, most high-level club positions have recently been filled. U.S. Soccer had reportedly offered Pochettino an extension through the 2030 World Cup cycle prior to the recent tournament, underscoring the federation's commitment.
Regarding the team's performance in the World Cup—which included topping the group and winning a knockout match before a decisive loss in the Round of 16—Batson suggested it was sufficient to warrant considering the manager's retention. He emphasized the multifaceted approach to achieving success, stating, "Our focus is on putting ourselves in the best position to be able to do that. Obviously our senior team performances matter, as do the state of our youth national teams, as do the state of our pathways more broadly, as do our talent identification and development, as does the state of our coaching."