As preparations intensify for the upcoming World Cup, Mauricio Pochettino, the head coach of the United States men’s national team, is reportedly evaluating his career options post-tournament. According to The Athletic, Pochettino recently met with AC Milan representatives regarding their vacant head coaching position. The Italian club is seeking new leadership after parting ways with Massimiliano Allegri, who failed to secure a spot in the Champions League for the next season.
Pochettino’s contract with the United States Soccer Federation is set to expire following the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Although Pochettino has expressed an interest in extending his tenure, his global reputation as a coach means he will likely attract offers from other clubs. This role marks Pochettino’s first experience managing a national team, following successful stints at Espanyol, Southampton, Tottenham, Paris Saint-Germain, and Chelsea.
Matt Crocker, who initially brought Pochettino to the U.S. national team, has already left his position as U.S. Soccer sporting director. Crocker has moved on to a similar role with the Saudi Arabian national team in preparation for the 2034 World Cup. Given their history together at Southampton, Crocker’s departure leaves U.S. Soccer with important decisions to make about the team’s future, regardless of whether Pochettino remains as manager.
Among the contenders for the Milan head coach position is former Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola. However, Sky Sports reports that Iraola prefers opportunities with Liverpool and Bayer Leverkusen. Additionally, sources from CBS Sports reveal that Milan has spoken with Ralf Rangnick regarding a technical director role, which could impact the coaching decision.
Has something like this happened before prior to the World Cup?
Unlike previous instances where national team coaches were dismissed for accepting club roles before a World Cup, Pochettino’s situation differs significantly from Julen Lopetegui’s in 2018. Lopetegui was replaced shortly before the World Cup after agreeing to join Real Madrid, leading to Spain’s early exit under Fernando Hierro. Commitment to leading a national team in the World Cup is crucial, especially for the United States, which faces high expectations for success.
If Pochettino had taken this meeting while the team was training in Fayetteville, Georgia, it might suggest a lack of focus on the World Cup. However, holding such discussions well before the tournament allows him to explore opportunities without impacting his current role. As the U.S. team prepares for friendlies against Senegal and Germany before their World Cup opener against Paraguay on June 12, Pochettino’s future will be closely monitored.
