Mauricio Pochettino has announced that he will decide on his future as the coach of the United States men’s national team next week.
The Argentinian manager is currently discussing a contract extension with U.S. Soccer that would keep him with the team until the 2030 World Cup.
Previously managing teams such as Tottenham, Paris Saint-Germain, and Chelsea, Pochettino was reportedly pursued by several European clubs earlier this year.
Despite the team’s disappointing exit in the round of 16 against Belgium, U.S. Soccer remains optimistic that Pochettino, 54, will choose to continue as head coach.
Throughout the group stage, the USMNT had shown promising performances, including a notable 2-0 victory against Bosnia-Herzegovina in the round of 32.
Pochettino, who took charge of the USMNT in September 2024, is currently focused on the World Cup final, where Spain will face his homeland, Argentina.
When asked if this matchup could be the best soccer game in the last four decades, he responded, “Absolutely. Everyone is eager to see the World Cup champions and Copa America champions go head-to-head with the European champions Spain. Both teams deserve their place in the final. I have no doubt it will be one of the most significant matches in history.”
“There are no clear favorites in my opinion. Argentina has gained confidence from winning the Copa America and the World Cup, while for Spain, this represents a significant challenge against [Lionel] Messi’s Argentina. However, I believe Spain’s players can handle it.”
At 39 years old, Messi has been exceptional in this World Cup, with pivotal contributions in Argentina’s 2-1 semifinal win over England.
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Pochettino emphasized that keeping the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi away from Spain’s goal will be crucial for the European champions to have a chance at the title. “The farther Messi is from your goal, the better it is,” he remarked. “You need to apply significant pressure on Argentina to prevent them from connecting with him, which is essential. Today, man-marking is impractical. Spain will aim to press Argentina and establish their own style of play.”
“Argentina is a team that knows how to control the pace of the game, exhibiting great patience throughout. They possess an aura around Messi — even nearing 40, he still radiates charisma and commands respect from his rivals, making them a formidable opponent. However, Spain is a well-organized side.”