Pochettino makes decision on USA future after World Cup disaster

Mauricio Pochettino is close to agreeing an extension to remain as head coach of the USMNT through to the 2030 World Cup, despite their campaign ending in disaster.

The 54-year-old’s initial contract expired following the World Cup, where the USMNT suffered a dispiriting 4-1 thrashing at the hands of Belgium in the round of 16.

However, US Soccer and Pochettino are now closing in on a new four-year deal that will keep the Argentine at the helm through to 2030, according to The Athletic.

Talks between the two parties were initially paused during the tournament, but negotiations have progressed rapidly following discussions between the two parties.

‘Right now, it’s about resting a little, to think, have conversations with the federation to see what the decision is. I’m so happy,’ Pochettino said following the Belgium loss. 

Meanwhile, US Soccer CEO JT Batson also confirmed that active discussions were underway regarding the future of the program’s coaching staff. 

Mauricio Pochettino is set to sign a contract extension with the USA that will run until 2030

The USA crashed out of the World Cup with a humiliating 4-1 defeat to Belgium in the last 16 

‘From a men’s national team coaching standpoint, we’re in active discussions with Mauricio and staff about the future,’ Batson explained. 

‘We all share a belief that the best days of US Soccer are ahead of us’. 

While the manner of their World Cup exit raised questions over Pochettino’s lucrative salary, the USMNT enjoyed a strong stage performance under his tenure – securing first place in their group after winning their opening two matches of the tournament. 

Pochettino, who took charge of the national team in October 2024, has remained actively involved in the federation’s long-term planning since taking the reins. 

However, not everyone shares the federation’s faith in the manager. Fullback-turned-commentator Alexi Lalas claimed earlier this month that US Soccer should cut ties with Pochettino. 

‘I mean, it’s not that I want him to leave,’ the divisive 56-year-old told talkSPORT in the wake of the USA’s World Cup exit . ‘I just think that this cycle has run its course.’

‘When it comes to Mauricio Pochettino, you had one job,’ Lalas continued. ‘And it was the game against Belgium. You win that game, then you’re in some rarefied air. And it’s not gravy but let’s be honest, you’re playing against Spain. And you take your chances, you’re back in an underdog type of role.

‘So I think that they [US Soccer] move on. I believe he’s had a good time, but you had one job, and you blew it. And, you know, you live and die by that. Every coach understands that, every manager understands that, and certainly Mauricio Pochettino does.

The Argentine said that he would take a break before making a decision after the World Cup 

‘It was an abject failure,’ Lalas continued. ‘It’s one thing to go out to Belgium, it’s another thing to go out in the way they went out, especially with the way that they looked through the tournament. 

‘I don’t think the confidence and excitement was misplaced for this team, but they picked the worst possible day to play their worst possible game. It’s obviously on Mauricio Pochettino and these players.

‘Does it completely negate everything they did? No. But the reality is a lot of that goodwill and a lot of the people that came into the tent … they’re left shaking their head and there’s an inquiry going on right now … rightfully holding this team and this coach to account.’

Pochettino was well received when he was named the USMNT head coach two years ago after previously coaching Tottenham, Paris Saint-Germain, and Chelsea. 

There had been reports linking him to the AC Milan job, but the Italian giant has since hired ex-Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim.