Mauricio Pochettino is reportedly in talks with the U.S. Soccer Federation to become the men’s national team coach, as per a source familiar with the negotiations. Although Pochettino has agreed to take on the role, the deal is still pending finalization. If the agreement goes through, he would succeed Gregg Berhalter less than two years before the United States is set to host the 2026 World Cup.
Pochettino, a 52-year-old from Argentina, would be the first foreign-born coach of the U.S. national team since Jurgen Klinsmann served in that role from 2011 to 2016. His coaching background includes stints at Espanyol in Spain, Southampton and Tottenham in England, Chelsea, and Paris Saint-Germain in France, where he left after winning a Ligue 1 title.
The U.S. Soccer Federation has chosen not to comment on these reports. Those involved in the search for a new coach, such as Matt Crocker, the USSF’s sporting director, have ties with Pochettino from his time at Southampton, where Crocker was the academy director.
Upcoming for the U.S. team are four friendlies against Canada, New Zealand, Panama, and another opponent in October. Following these matches, the team will compete in a two-leg CONCACAF Nations League quarterfinal in November.