U.S. Soccer announced the Argentine manager will remain head coach for a second World Cup cycle after leading the team to the last 16 in 2026.
9:37 AM
Mauricio Pochettino has agreed to a new contract with U.S. Soccer that will keep him as head coach of the U.S. men's national team through the 2030 World Cup, the federation announced Monday.
Pochettino's initial contract with U.S. Soccer expired following the 2026 World Cup. Both the coach and federation had publicly indicated openness to a renewal, and discussions about an extension had been underway for several months before the tournament concluded.
The Argentine manager joined the USMNT in September 2024 with the primary objective of preparing the team for the 2026 World Cup. Under his leadership, the U.S. reached the last 16 of the tournament before losing 4-1 to Belgium in the knockout stage.
Conversations regarding the contract extension intensified in the weeks following the World Cup. According to reports, the two sides had reached the final stages of negotiations before the formal announcement.
Beyond his duties as head coach, Pochettino and his staff will advise and support U.S. Soccer on broader aspects of the national team program, including youth soccer development, coaching education, and collaboration with professional leagues.
In his statement, Pochettino said: "Working in conjunction with the U.S. Soccer Federation over the last two years, it became clear to us that there is enormous potential to further strengthen the Men's National Team program. The passion we experienced from the fans during the World Cup only reinforced our belief in what is possible here."
With the contract extension, Pochettino will oversee a complete World Cup cycle for the USMNT. His responsibilities will include leading the team through 2030 World Cup qualifying matches, the Concacaf Nations League tournaments in 2027 and 2029, and the Concacaf Gold Cup competitions in 2027 and 2029.
Head coach Mauricio Pochettino announced the U.S. squad for the 2026 World Cup on Tuesday in New York, featuring Christian Pulisic and excluding midfielder Tanner Tessmann.
The Brazilian Football Federation renewed Carlo Ancelotti's contract as national team coach for four additional years, extending through the 2030 World Cup.
U.S. Men's National Team manager Mauricio Pochettino revealed the squad for the tournament co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico starting next month.
Pochettino announced the 38-year-old center back as captain, citing his leadership both on and off the field during qualifying.
Portuguese manager rejoins club 13 years after first stint ended, replacing Álvaro Arbeloa. Mourinho will begin work July 13.
Portuguese manager, 63, would return to the club if Pérez wins Sunday's presidential election. Benfica has set a release clause price.
