Mauricio Pochettino has been named as the new head coach of the United States men’s national team, USMNT announced Tuesday.
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Pochettino takes over as United States head coach
Pochettino, 52, has signed a two-year contract that extends through the 2026 World Cup.
United States is co-hosting with Canada and Mexico.
Pochettino replaces Gregg Berhalter, who was sacked after USA’s group-stage elimination from the Copa America.
USMNT will introduce the Argentine coach on Friday in New York.
“I couldn’t pass up,” Pochettino said.
“The decision to join US Soccer wasn’t just about football for me; it’s about the journey that this team and this country are on.”
“The energy, the passion, and the hunger to achieve something truly historic here – those are the things that inspired me.”
“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.”
According to ESPN, Pochettino will receive a salary of $6 million per year.
As a result, this will make him the highest-paid coach in USMNT history.
Impressive resume
Pochettino began his managerial career with La Liga side Espanyol before moving to the Premier League.
Initially, he joined Southampton, and shortly after, took the reins at Tottenham.
During his time at Spurs, he guided the team to their first UEFA Champions League Final in 2019.
Following his success in England, Pochettino signed with Paris Saint-Germain, where he led the club to a Ligue 1 title.
In addition, he captured victories in the Coupe de France and the Trophée des Champions with PSG.
Most recently, Pochettino joined Chelsea last season, guiding the team to a sixth-place finish in the Premier League before departing in May.
USMNT on board with Pochettino
US Soccer sporting director Matt Crocker led the search for the next USMNT coach and ultimately hired Pochettino.
“Mauricio is a serial winner with a deep passion for player development and a proven ability to build cohesive and competitive teams,” he said in a statement.
“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.”
“We are thrilled to have Mauricio on board as we embark on this exciting journey to achieve success on the global stage.”
“Hiring Mauricio is a step forward in our mission to compete at the highest level and make a lasting mark on the global soccer landscape,” said U.S. Soccer CEO JT Batson.
“His deep knowledge of the game, his commitment to developing talent, and his relentless drive for excellence are exactly what we need as we prepare for the 2026 World Cup.
“Mauricio understands the unique potential of this team and this country, and he shares our belief that U.S. Soccer is on the cusp of something truly special.”
