Mauricio Pochettino agrees to coach US men's national football team
Mauricio Pochettino, the former Chelsea manager, has agreed to become the new head coach of the United States men's national team (USMNT). The 52-year-old Argentine will lead the United States in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as per ESPN. This development comes after his departure from Chelsea earlier this summer, following a single season with The Blues.
Pochettino to succeed Berhalter as USMNT head coach
Pochettino is set to succeed Gregg Berhalter as the USMNT head coach. This decision was made after extensive talks with Matt Crocker, the technical director of the United States Soccer Federation (USSF). Crocker, who has previously worked with Premier League team Southampton and the English Football Association, was tasked with finding a top-tier coach for the US team.
A significant achievement for USSF
The USSF's efforts to secure Jurgen Klopp as the new coach were unsuccessful following his departure from Liverpool. However, Pochettino's agreement to take on the role is seen as a significant achievement for the federation. He is expected to assume his duties in time for the USMNT game against Canada in Kansas City, Kansas, on September 7.
Plight of US football
Pochettino joins the US men's national team, which endured forgettable run at Copa America. USA were knocked out in the group stage, having became the first-ever Copa hosts to miss the knockout rounds, as per Goal.com. Therefore, Berhalter was sacked as USA's head coach midway through his second cyle. His contract got renewed in June 2023.
