Mauricio Pochettino will continue as the head coach for the U.S. men’s national team, having agreed to a new contract with U.S. Soccer. The federation announced on Monday that the deal extends through the 2030 World Cup. Pochettino’s previous contract concluded after the 2026 World Cup, and discussions regarding a renewal had been ongoing.
This new agreement signifies a fresh start for the team, with Pochettino expressing his intent to refresh the mindset, culture, and philosophy of the program. He aims to usher in a new era for USA soccer, emphasizing that player performance will be key to selection. His next camp is scheduled for a two-week international window in September-October, which will include four friendly matches.
New Era for US Soccer
Beyond coaching the USMNT through another World Cup cycle, Pochettino and his staff will also provide guidance and support to U.S. Soccer on various aspects of the sport. This includes the broader development of the national team pathway, youth soccer initiatives, coaching education, and collaboration with professional leagues. Their involvement will also extend to other technical facets across the soccer community.
Pochettino’s return follows a World Cup run that, despite captivating the nation, concluded with a 4-1 loss to Belgium in the round of 16. This defeat marked the USMNT‘s most significant World Cup loss in 36 years. His tenure, which began in the fall of 2024, saw the team achieve a 3-2-0 record in the World Cup and an overall record of 17-12-2 in 31 matches, including a penalty shootout victory in the Concacaf Gold Cup.
Despite the disappointment of the round of 16 exit, Pochettino had guided the U.S. to several firsts in the expanded 48-nation tournament. The team secured advancement from the group stage with a game remaining and achieved three wins in a single World Cup, captivating audiences and drawing record television viewership. U.S. Soccer CEO JT Batson indicated excitement about continuing discussions with Pochettino after the tournament.
Financial Support and Future Outlook
The financial terms of Pochettino’s new agreement were not fully disclosed, particularly concerning any buyout clauses if he were to pursue opportunities in European club football. However, it is understood that retaining Pochettino would likely involve a salary comparable to or exceeding his previous earnings. His initial contract provided him with several million dollars annually, including a $2.5 million signing bonus, according to U.S. Soccer tax filings.
This significant financial commitment from the federation is notably supported by a philanthropic leadership gift from hedge fund billionaire Ken Griffin, who is once again the lead donor for this contract. Additional support has been provided by Scott Goodwin, co-founder of Diameter Capital, and Adam Freede, CEO of MadaLuxe Group and an investor in MLS club LAFC, along with several commercial partners. Revenue from commercial sponsors is also reported to be at an all-time high.
Pochettino, who is 54 years old and took over in October 2024, views the upcoming cycle as an opportunity to build a program with greater depth, particularly in positions like goalkeeper and central defender. He emphasized the importance of developing young talent for the 2030 World Cup. Before joining the U.S. team, Pochettino coached several European clubs, including Espanyol, Southampton, Tottenham, Paris Saint-Germain, and Chelsea.
The coach has indicated that he may consider moving to the U.S., having homes in Spain and London. While committed to the American team until 2030, he acknowledged the unpredictable nature of soccer. Pochettino will have at least two years before his next major tournament, which could be the 2028 Copa América if the U.S. participates as a host or invited nation. His competitive schedule will also include Concacaf Gold Cups, Nations Leagues, and World Cup qualifying matches.
Pochettino becomes the fifth USMNT coach in the 21st century to lead the team into a second World Cup cycle. Historically, three of the previous four coaches in this position—Bob Bradley, Jurgen Klinsmann, and Gregg Berhalter—were dismissed midway through their second cycle. Bruce Arena, the fourth coach, reached the 2006 World Cup but his team was eliminated in the group stage without a victory.
Pochettino expressed his belief in the exciting situation for soccer in the USA, highlighting the opportunity to start fresh with a different approach and philosophy. He stated that the demand from the federation’s vision for the future requires a distinct approach and new principles, with the ultimate goal being the next World Cup.
JT Batson, USSF CEO, affirmed the organization’s commitment to achieving its ambitions, including competing to win Men’s World Cups and making soccer the most played sport in every community. Pochettino’s new contract officially became a reality on Monday.
Source: nytimes.com
Mason Reed
Sports reporter covering football, basketball and international competitions.