Mauricio Pochettino: USA unveil former Chelsea and PSG manager as new boss

The Argentine, who parted ways with Premier League side Chelsea in May after just one season, will lead the U.S. team ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which the nation will co-host with Mexico and Canada.

Pochettino brings a wealth of experience from his managerial stints at Tottenham Hotspur and Paris Saint-Germain, where he worked with top talents and achieved success. He said his decision to join the U.S. setup was influenced by more than just football.

“The energy, the passion, and the hunger to achieve something truly historic here – those are the things that inspired me,” Pochettino remarked in a statement. “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.”

U.S. Soccer Sporting Director Matt Crocker expressed his delight at securing Pochettino’s services. He described the former Spurs boss as a “serial winner with a deep passion for developing players.”

“His track record speaks for itself, and I am confident that he is the right choice to harness the immense potential within our talented squad,” said Crocker. “We are thrilled to have Mauricio on board as we embark on this exciting journey to achieve success on the global stage.”

The U.S. has been without a permanent coach since Gregg Berhalter’s sacking following the team’s disappointing exit from the Copa America in July.

Berhalter’s second tenure ended after a shock 2-1 defeat to Panama and a narrow 1-0 loss to Uruguay, causing his contract not to be renewed. Before that, Berhalter had guided the Americans to the knockout stages of the 2022 World Cup but was later involved in a public dispute with rising star Gio Reyna.

Interim coach Mikey Varas had been leading the team during recent friendlies, including a 1-1 draw with New Zealand last week.

Pochettino will now take charge as the U.S. prepares for crucial friendlies against Panama and Mexico next month, laying the groundwork for what promises to be an exciting road to the 2026 World Cup.