The U.S. men’s national soccer team got a big boost on Thursday morning as Mauricio Pochettino agreed to be their next head coach.
The Athletic reported that Pochettino, a sought-after candidate, finalized a deal with U.S. Soccer. Despite never coaching at the international level, Pochettino is highly regarded in the world of club soccer.
This is a significant addition ahead of the 2026 men’s World Cup, where the U.S. will co-host with Canada and Mexico. Pochettino’s reputation precedes him, but who is he exactly? How much of a coup is this? What style of play can be expected?
Read on as The Athletic’s Jack Pitt-Brooke provides insights into the 52-year-old Argentinian.
Who is Mauricio Pochettino?
Mauricio Pochettino is widely considered one of the top managers in European football.
As a player, he excelled as a competitive center-back, starting in Argentina and later moving to Spain to play for Espanyol. He then had brief stints in France before returning to Espanyol to complete his playing career. Pochettino represented Argentina in the 2002 World Cup, earning 20 caps.
Pochettino, left, playing for Espanyol (Luis Bagu/Getty Images)
Pochettino ventured into coaching at Espanyol in 2009, gaining recognition for his bold high-pressing style of football with young talents, reviving the team’s fortunes. His success continued with Southampton in the Premier League and eventually, he led Tottenham Hotspur to remarkable achievements in the following years.
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Pochettino went on to manage PSG, securing a French Cup and a Ligue 1 title. His stint at Chelsea saw them achieve a top-six finish in the Premier League and reach the Carabao Cup final.
What Makes This a Major Gain for the USMNT?
Securing a coach of Pochettino’s caliber from the club scene is a significant achievement for the men’s national team.
Comparisons may be drawn with Jurgen Klinsmann, a former player with coaching experience leading the USMNT in the past. However, Pochettino brings a wealth of European club management expertise that sets him apart. His successful tenure at Tottenham stands out as one of the best in recent memory, despite the lack of trophies.
His inclination towards international football is rooted in a passion for the sport’s heritage, setting the stage for a promising partnership with the USMNT.
Why Choose an International Role?
Pochettino’s affinity for the World Cup stems from a deep admiration for the tournament’s significance in the sport. His childhood memories of Argentina’s victories in 1978 and 1986, coupled with his own participation in 2002, fuel his ambition to lead a team on the global stage.
Pochettino ‘fouling’ Owen at the 2002 World Cup (Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
The allure of managing in a World Cup is a testament to Pochettino’s unwavering dedication to the sport’s pinnacle events, transcending national boundaries.