Mauricio Pochettino, head coach of the U.S. men's national soccer team, is nearing a decision on his future with the team. Pochettino confirmed on Thursday that he has received a contract extension offer from U.S. Soccer and will make a determination regarding his future by next week.
Pochettino's current contract is set to expire at the end of the year. Despite the USMNT's Round of 16 exit from the World Cup after a 4-1 loss to Belgium, U.S. Soccer has expressed a desire for him to continue. The team achieved a historic milestone by winning two group stage matches for the first time since 1930 and secured a decisive 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32.
Sources indicate that Pochettino was a target for several European clubs this year. He took over the American squad in September 2024, after a career coaching in Europe for clubs such as Tottenham, Paris Saint-Germain, and Chelsea. U.S. Soccer's ability to subsidize Pochettino's contract was supported by billionaire benefactors when he was initially hired. The financial details of a potential extension remain unclear.
U.S. Soccer CEO and Secretary General JT Batson has voiced optimism about Pochettino's continued tenure. The coach also shared his anticipation for the World Cup final between Argentina and Spain, calling it potentially the greatest soccer match in 40 years.