USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino leaves for Manchester United, which names him manager
Pochettino’s departure
Pochettino took over the U.S. men’s national team in 2024, when the squad was described as ailing. He is now leaving to coach Manchester United. He will lead the U.S. for two more games, including a match against Haiti in the coming days. The account does not specify when he will depart after those games.
A strong World Cup showing
The USMNT finished first in its group at the 2026 World Cup and reached the Round of 16. It also won its first knockout-round game since 2002. Pochettino recorded three wins at the tournament, the most by a USMNT coach at any World Cup. His aggressive attacking approach drew praise from players and fans.
A high-profile coaching career
Pochettino was the highest-profile manager the U.S. had hired. Before taking charge of the national team, he coached Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain. As a player, he represented Argentina at the 2002 World Cup and played in leagues in Spain and France. Last August, he signed an extension intended to keep him with the USMNT through the 2030 World Cup.
Key points
- Pochettino is leaving the USMNT to coach Manchester United.
- The U.S. finished first in its group at the 2026 World Cup.
- The USMNT won its first knockout-round game since 2002.
- Pochettino will coach the U.S. for two more games before departing.