He takes over the technical leadership of the United States a little more than three months after leaving his position as Chelsea's head coach.
Mauricio Pochettino was officially announced as the new head coach of the United States national soccer team on Tuesday, marking a significant shift in the country's approach to preparing for the 2026 World Cup.
The prestigious tournament, which will be jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, is set to be one of the most important milestones in U.S. soccer history, and the hiring of Pochettino signals the country's ambition to make a deep impact on the global stage.
At 52 years old, the Argentine coach brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously managed top European clubs, including Tottenham Hotspur and Paris Saint-Germain, before his most recent stint with Chelsea. Pochettino takes over the U.S. team just over three months after parting ways with Chelsea, where results didn't meet expectations during a difficult season for the club. Now, he steps into the U.S. national team role with a fresh challenge ahead, replacing Gregg Berhalter, who had been at the helm since 2018 before leaving his post.
In his statement, Pochettino expressed enthusiasm not just for the sporting project but for the broader context in which the U.S. team is evolving. "The decision to coach the United States wasn't just about football for me. It's about the journey that this team and this country are on," Pochettino said, emphasizing his excitement about the potential and growth of soccer in the U.S. "The energy, passion, and hunger to achieve something truly historic here" were key factors in his decision to take the job.
Pochettino will inherit a talented group of players, many of whom ply their trade in top European leagues. Key figures such as Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, and Tyler Adams have already established themselves as critical components of the national team, and under Pochettino’s guidance, they will be expected to reach new heights. The 2026 World Cup presents a unique opportunity for the U.S. team to shine on home soil, and Pochettino’s task will be to mold a squad capable of competing with the world's best.
Pochettino's experience in developing young talent is likely one of the reasons the U.S. Soccer Federation saw him as the ideal candidate. His track record with Tottenham Hotspur, where he transformed the club into a consistent Premier League contender and nurtured players like Harry Kane and Dele Alli, suggests he could have a similar impact with the U.S. team. Moreover, his tactical acumen and ability to instill a strong team ethos will be vital in navigating the competitive landscape of international football.
As preparations ramp up for the 2026 World Cup, Pochettino’s appointment signals a long-term vision. His immediate focus will likely be on building team cohesion and refining the playing style, while also integrating new talents who could emerge as key players over the next two years. The U.S. team has shown promise in recent international tournaments, but Pochettino will aim to push them beyond their previous achievements, with the goal of making a lasting impact at the World Cup.
The U.S. Soccer Federation will be hoping that Pochettino can bring the same level of success that he achieved with his club teams. His arrival also reflects a growing trend of high-profile international managers being brought in to lead national teams, especially in countries looking to make a statement in global football.
While much of the attention will be on the 2026 World Cup, Pochettino's tenure will also encompass other crucial tournaments, such as the CONCACAF Nations League and the Gold Cup, which will serve as vital opportunities to assess the team's progress. These competitions will allow him to fine-tune the squad, test different tactical approaches, and ensure that the U.S. team is fully prepared when the World Cup arrives.
As Pochettino steps into his new role, U.S. soccer fans will be eagerly watching to see how the team evolves under his leadership. With his track record of success and a clear vision for the future, there is optimism that Pochettino can take the U.S. national team to new heights, both in 2026 and beyond.
