Mauricio Pochettino to Leave U.S. Soccer for Manchester United Position
FAYETTEVILLE, Ga. — Mauricio Pochettino, despite his assertions of a long-term commitment, has announced that his second stint as head coach of the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) will conclude next week. Just 102 days after signing a four-year contract, he confirmed his move to Manchester United during an emotional news conference.
Pochettino, visibly moved, addressed the media as he prepares for his farewell matches, which include Saturday’s CONCACAF Nations League quarterfinal against Haiti in Miami and a subsequent game in Cincinnati. Following those matches, he will take up the reins at Old Trafford.
While he referred to his work with the U.S. as an “amazing project,” the allure of managing Manchester United, a club he has been linked to on multiple occasions, proved irresistible. United is experiencing its worst start in 40 years and is in urgent need of revitalization.
“I never said that I want to go back” to Europe, Pochettino remarked regarding the speculation surrounding his future. “Not many opportunities like Manchester United come along. When that arrives, it’s difficult to turn down that situation.” He stressed that he envisioned staying with the U.S. program until 2030 when he and the federation decided to extend their partnership.
Mauricio Pochettino works with players including Christian Pulisic on Friday ahead of his final two matches as USMNT coach.
(AP Photo/Colin Hubbard)
With an impressive coaching resume that includes a Champions League runner-up title with Tottenham Hotspur, along with his time at Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea, Pochettino had often been rumored as a candidate for various high-profile positions throughout his tenure with the U.S. team.
Reports of interest from clubs such as Tottenham and AC Milan circulated during his first 18 months in the role, but he chose to focus on the impending World Cup to support his team. Now, with United’s appeal during a crucial period for the club, Pochettino feels he is making the right move.
He emphasized the journey he shared with the U.S. program, stating, “It is a project and a program we were evolving together. That is why it makes it more difficult — a decision that, in some part, is a very sad decision… but we are professionals and we need also to try to find the next step and try to make your dreams come true.”
While he aimed for a deeper run in the World Cup, the team exited at the Round of 16, which many considered a familiar pattern for the U.S. However, under Pochettino’s guidance, the program has witnessed significant growth in depth, culture, and overall confidence.
U.S. Soccer Federation Chief Executive J.T. Batson acknowledged the positive impact of Pochettino’s tenure, stating, “We have a team with great momentum… Mauricio and his staff have raised the standard.” He noted that the belief in what soccer can achieve in the U.S. has never been stronger.
The federation had wisely included a $10 million release clause in Pochettino’s contract, a sum that Manchester United will need to pay. Batson indicated that this funding could be used to secure a new coach and enhance the program’s resources.
With the coaching search already underway, Batson and Chief Operating Officer Dan Helfrich are leading the effort, with women’s gold medal-winning coach Emma Hayes providing support. Steve Cherundolo, currently preparing the under-23 Olympic team, will conduct a low-key camp next month, while the full squad will reconvene in mid-March.
Batson conveyed optimism for the future, stating, “Our ambition is high, and we believe this is one of the great coaching jobs in the world.” While it remains uncertain whether a new coach will be appointed by March, Pochettino is set on ensuring that the U.S. team performs well in the upcoming Nations League matches.
Pochettino has committed to focusing on the immediate challenges ahead, helping the team achieve its potential before his departure.
