FIFA WC: 'We will make a decision next week,' says Pochettino on his future as USA head coach
New York, July 18
Mauricio Pochettino says he expects to decide his future as USA football head coach next week, with the USMNT hoping to keep the Argentine in charge despite the team's disappointing FIFA World Cup campaign.
The 54-year-old's current contract expires after the tournament, but the federation has reportedly offered him a new four-year deal that would keep him at the helm until the end of the 2030 World Cup, according to the Daily Mail.
Speaking to Spanish radio station Cadena Cope, Pochettino confirmed that discussions are ongoing and that a final call on his future will be made in the coming days.
"We are evaluating it, looking at it. (U.S. Soccer) have made me an offer to continue, and we will see. Next week we will [make] a decision."
Pochettino's future has been under the spotlight since the USA suffered a disappointing 4-1 defeat to Belgium in the Round of 16, ending hopes of a deep run on home soil. Shortly after the loss, he said he wanted to take some time before deciding whether to remain in the role.
Pochettino was appointed USA football head coach two years ago and arrived with an impressive coaching record in European club football. His name had recently been linked with the vacant AC Milan job, but the Serie A side has since appointed former Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim, leaving Pochettino's immediate focus on his discussions with the US football governing body.
While uncertainty surrounds his coaching future, the Argentine is eagerly awaiting Monday's FIFA World Cup final. Pochettino believes the clash will be one of the greatest football matches in recent history.
"Yes, absolutely," Pochettino said. "They both deserve to be in the final. I think it's the best game you can watch nowadays. I have no doubt this is going to be one of the most important games in history."
— IANS
Reader Comments
Honestly, I'm surprised they're offering him a new deal after that Belgium loss. The US team has talented players like Pulisic and McKennie, but they looked disjointed. Maybe Pochettino needs more time to implement his philosophy, but another failure in 2026 would be disastrous. I hope he proves me wrong! 🤞
As an Indian football fan, I find it interesting how the US is so quick to stick with their coach despite a disappointing World Cup. In India, we change coaches faster than you can say 'goal'! 😅 But Pochettino has a proven track record with Tottenham and PSG. If I were US Soccer, I'd keep him and give him full control over player development. The future looks promising with all those young talents coming through.
I think Pochettino is a fantastic manager, but the US needs to think long-term. A four-year deal seems like a commitment to building something special. However, that Belgium defeat was brutal—4-1 at home in a knockout game? The defense was a mess. Still, I'd give him one more cycle to see if he can build a winning mentality. The World Cup final prediction though? He's spot on—it's going to be epic! 🏆
The USMNT has so much potential but they lack that killer instinct. Pochettino is a world-class tactician, but I question whether he's the right fit for international football. He's used to working with players daily at club level, not having them for a few weeks a year. Maybe he should go back to Europe? The AC Milan link made sense but they've moved on. Let's see what happens next week.
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