In a significant move for US soccer, Mauricio Pochettino has been appointed as the new head coach of the United States men’s national team. The 52-year-old Argentine coach, known for his successful stints with top European clubs like Tottenham Hotspur, Paris Saint-Germain, and Chelsea, takes over from Gregg Berhalter, who was dismissed in July following a disappointing early exit from the Copa América.Pochettino’s appointment comes at a crucial time for US soccer, with the country set to co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside Canada and Mexico. Matt Crocker, U.S. Soccer’s sporting director, praised Pochettino’s credentials, stating, ‘Mauricio is a serial winner with a deep passion for player development and a proven ability to build cohesive and competitive teams’.The new coach expressed enthusiasm about his role, saying, ‘The decision to join US Soccer was not just about football for me, it’s about the journey this team and this country are on’. Pochettino added, ‘I see a group of players full of talent and potential, and together we’re going to build something special that the whole nation can be proud of’.Pochettino’s first matches at the helm are expected to be in October, with friendlies scheduled against Panama on October 12 and Mexico on October 15. These games will serve as important tests as the team begins its preparations for the 2026 World Cup.The appointment of Pochettino, with his track record of promoting young talent and building competitive teams, is seen as a statement of intent from U.S. Soccer. It marks a new era for the US men’s national team, with high hopes for success in the upcoming World Cup on home soil.
Key points
- Mauricio Pochettino, former coach of top European clubs, has been appointed as the new head coach of the US men’s national soccer team.
- Pochettino’s appointment comes ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which the US will co-host with Canada and Mexico.
- The new coach aims to build a competitive team and develop young talent for the upcoming World Cup.
- Pochettino’s first matches will be friendlies against Panama and Mexico in October.
