The sting from the 2026 FIFA World Cup has not worn off for many fans of the US Men’s National Team.
In one of the most inspired performances from a U.S. men’s team, well, ever, the USMNT started their group stage run by destroying a very solid Paraguay team 4-1. They followed that up by handling a defensive, feisty Australia team 2-0, clinching the top spot in their group before the third game even took place.
Advancing out of the group stage was the bare minimum expectation, but the way the United States did it — with aggressive, attacking soccer and dominant scorelines — raised expectations for the rest of the tournament.
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They beat Bosnia & Herzegovina 2-0 in the Round of 32 for their first win in a knockout stage game in decades, though the result was tainted by Folarin Balogun’s very undeserved red card. Everyone knows what happened next. FIFA postponed his suspension, President Donald Trump said he spoke to FIFA about the improper protocol used to give the red card in the first place and Balgoun was allowed to play against Belgium.
Little good it did. The Red Devils were clearly the better team in Seattle, and took advantage of some frankly inexcusable and indefensible mistakes from U.S. players. Particularly goalkeeper Matt Freese and center-back Tim Ream. Not only was the 4-1 result frustrating, but disheartening too, for what it implied about how far the USMNT has to go.
The end of the World Cup also meant the end of Mauricio Pochettino’s contract as the team’s manager, leading to much debate and disagreement over whether he should continue. And this week, we seem to have gotten our answer on U.S. Soccer’s thinking.
Multiple reports, including in The Athletic, have said that the two sides are “close” to an agreement on a new contract. One that would keep Pochettino in place through the 2030 World Cup. Telemundo announcer Andres Cantor also reported Tuesday evening that the two sides were nearing a new deal.
After the Belgium loss, Pochettino said he would take some time to rest and consider his decision.
“Right now, it’s about resting a little bit, to think, have conversations with the federation to see what the decision is. I’m so happy,” Pochettino explained. “We’ve built a very good relationship.”
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U.S. Soccer also issued a statement heavily implying they wanted to bring Pochettino back. Though the 54-year-old was widely expected to have a list of offers and opportunities in several international leagues.
“From a men’s national team coaching standpoint, we’re in active discussions with Mauricio and staff about the future,” said U.S. Soccer CEO JT Batson recently. “We all share a belief that the best days of U.S. Soccer are ahead of us, and they’re excited about the opportunity to impact soccer at all levels in every community.”
Seemingly, though, he’s nearing a decision to return to the United States.
So what does this mean?
Some analysts believe that each World Cup cycle should have a different manager. Others believe continuity is key, and that having the same leadership in place allows for more consistent scouting and tactical development with limited practice time.
Pochettino’s case in particular feels tough to evaluate. There’s no doubt that the USMNT played a better brand of soccer at the World Cup than they’d show in the past. And had they beaten Belgium, the tournament would have been an unquestioned success. But they didn’t beat Belgium. Not only did they not beat Belgium, in fact, but they lost in humiliating fashion.
That loss, though, didn’t look to be Pochettino’s fault. Having no better option at center-back than 38-year-old Tim Ream is not on him. Christian Pulisic’s injury and tentativeness is not on him. Freese inexplicably kicking the grass instead of the ball is not on him. His tactical adjustments in the second half clearly paid immediate dividends, as the U.S. was more in control of play until the Freese debacle. He subbed Sergino Dest off after Dest’s very poor first half, taking decisive action instead of hoping for the best.
He also might be able to convince talented dual nationals like Noahkai Banks to fully commit to the USMNT, given his track record at the elite club level. And at the end of the day, who would be a better option?
Jürgen Klopp is the new head coach of the German National Team. Maybe Pep Guardiola, though he seems committed to taking a year off after turning down the Italy job. Carlo Ancelotti is with Brazil, who were knocked out in disappointing fashion themselves. Luis de la Fuente, coach of now-defending champion Spain, isn’t going anywhere. Didier Deschamps is a World Cup winner, though it’s hard to see him wanting to jump ship to the U.S.
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Pochettino’s personality and track record are a tough combo to beat. He was successful in turning around the mindset and tactics with the USMNT. Now he just needs to hope the team’s players develop in the coming years. A lot.
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