Mauricio Pochettino, the renowned Argentine coach known for his work with top European clubs like Tottenham Hotspur, Paris Saint-Germain, and Chelsea, has officially been appointed as the new head coach of the U.S. Men’s National Soccer Team. The announcement ends months of speculation and high-profile searches for a leader who can guide the U.S. team toward a successful 2026 FIFA World Cup run, which the U.S. will co-host alongside Mexico and Canada.
Pochettino, 52, is a high-profile hire for the U.S. squad and brings a wealth of experience from the highest levels of European soccer. He has a proven track record of developing young talent and leading successful teams. His appointment signals U.S. Soccer’s commitment to raising the level of the national team as they prepare for a major tournament on home soil.
“We are thrilled to welcome Mauricio Pochettino as the new head coach,” said U.S. Soccer President Cindy Parlow Cone. “His tactical brilliance, passion for developing players, and experience at the top level of the game make him the perfect fit for our national team.”
Pochettino’s résumé includes leading Tottenham Hotspur to the Champions League final in 2019 and managing elite players like Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, and Harry Kane. He is expected to bring a fresh approach to the U.S. team, which boasts a promising generation of young talents, including Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, and Folarin Balogun.
The U.S. team is coming off a disappointing Copa América performance this summer, which resulted in a group-stage exit and the subsequent firing of former coach Gregg Berhalter. Pochettino steps in at a critical juncture for the team as they gear up for the 2026 World Cup.
Though Pochettino has never managed a national team, his deep experience at the club level and his knack for developing youth talent make him an exciting choice to lead the U.S. squad. His connection with U.S. Soccer Sporting Director Matt Crocker, whom he worked with at Southampton, also played a key role in the hire.
Now begins the Pochettino era, with the coach tasked with restoring the team’s confidence and pushing the U.S. men’s team to reach new heights on the international stage. The goal for 2026 is clear: a strong showing in front of the home crowd, with hopes of making a deep run in the tournament.
As Pochettino noted in his introductory statement, “There is a massive opportunity ahead, and I am excited to lead the U.S. team toward success in the World Cup.”
