Negotiations between U.S. Soccer and Mauricio Pochettino regarding his continuation as head coach for the U.S. men’s national team are reportedly nearing completion. Multiple sources indicate that a deal is close, though not yet finalised, for Pochettino to extend his tenure through the 2030 World Cup.
Pochettino’s initial contract was set to conclude after the 2026 World Cup. Both parties have expressed a desire for the partnership to continue, with an offer extended to Pochettino prior to the tournament. Discussions were paused until after the U.S. team’s participation in the competition concluded.
The proposed new agreement is understood to be for four years. Financial terms and other details that remain under discussion have not yet been disclosed.
Pochettino’s tenure and World Cup performance
Under Pochettino’s leadership, the U.S. team achieved a strong group stage performance at the World Cup. The team secured first place in their group after two matches, a first in the program’s history, and won its first knockout World Cup game since 2002. This knockout stage victory occurred in a round that was introduced following the expansion of the World Cup to 48 teams.
The U.S. team was eliminated from the tournament by Belgium in the round of 16, following a 4-1 loss. Despite the exit, Pochettino reflected positively on his time, stating after the match against Belgium that he was “so happy” and that a “very good relationship” had been built.
Pochettino took on the role of USMNT head coach in the autumn of 2024, with his first matches occurring in October of that year. During his time, the team experienced a four-game losing streak, the program’s first since 2007, and defeats to Panama and Canada in the March 2025 Concacaf Nations League final four.
Highlights of his coaching period include a 5-1 friendly victory over Uruguay in November 2025, which concluded a five-game unbeaten run, and significant wins in the World Cup against Paraguay, Australia, and Bosnia-Herzegovina.
Ongoing discussions and future outlook
U.S. Soccer CEO JT Batson recently confirmed that active discussions are underway with Pochettino and his staff regarding the future. Batson expressed a shared belief that the best days for U.S. Soccer are ahead and highlighted the excitement about impacting soccer at all levels within every community.
Batson also noted that Pochettino and his team are involved in the federation’s long-term planning. This planning includes the recent appointment of former LAFC manager and U.S. men’s national team veteran Steve Cherundolo as the coach for the men’s 2028 Olympic team.
Pochettino’s potential new contract would signify a commitment through the 2030 World Cup. This would make it his longest coaching tenure if he completes the proposed four-year term.
Reports linking Pochettino with other clubs, including Manchester United, are expected to diminish should the extension become official. Pochettino has previously acknowledged interest from Manchester United, but stated that the “ideal scenario to manage there has never quite materialised.”
The decision on Pochettino’s future was anticipated to be made after the conclusion of the World Cup. His previous contract expired at the end of the tournament, and while a decision was expected sooner, talks have continued to progress towards an extension.
Pochettino was appointed as the USA head coach in September 2024, following the departure of Gregg Berhalter. The 54-year-old coach has overseen 31 matches with the United States, recording 17 wins, 2 draws, and 12 losses.
The U.S. team finished 12th overall at the 2026 World Cup, achieving a new U.S. record with 11 goals scored across five matches.
Source: nytimes.com
Adam Rutherford is a Senior Football Correspondent at News-UK. He spent his early career filing match reports across the North West. He focuses on the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from Manchester Metropolitan University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in Manchester, he coaches a youth team and watches grassroots football. “Every transfer window hides a dozen real stories.”
