Overview
- U.S. Soccer issued a post-World Cup statement saying it had positive pre-tournament talks with Mauricio Pochettino and that formal conversations about his future will continue after the tournament.
- Pochettino finished the 2026 World Cup with a 3-0-2 record and an expiring contract, creating an explicit vacancy scenario if the federation and coach do not agree on terms.
- Prominent pundits and former players have urged U.S. Soccer to aggressively pursue Pep Guardiola, citing his reported interest in national-team work and his past affinity for the United States.
- Other names being floated as more pragmatic or realistic options include Gareth Southgate, Thierry Henry, Jesse Marsch, Thomas Frank and Julian Nagelsmann, each with different trade-offs on experience, style and fit.
- The federation’s choice could affect U.S. player development and tournament prospects because a marquee hire would bring prestige and a tactical overhaul while a domestic or regional coach would offer continuity and immediate CONCACAF experience.