Mauricio Pochettino is set to take over as the head coach of the U.S. men’s national team, although his departure from Chelsea is making the arrangement more complex.

Mauricio Pochettino is on the verge of being officially appointed as the new head coach of the US Men’s National Team, following weeks of negotiations after accepting the role.

According to talkSPORT, his agreement was delayed due to complications surrounding his departure from Chelsea.

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The Argentine manager led Chelsea to a sixth-place finish last season but parted ways with the club despite a strong conclusion to the campaign.

His departure came with a £10 million severance package, which remains unaffected by his new role, offering him a quick return to management.

In August, talkSPORT revealed that he had verbally consented to replace Gregg Berhalter as the US coach.

Berhalter was dismissed earlier this summer after the national team’s disappointing exit in the group stage of the 2024 Copa America.

Pochettino previously worked with USA sporting director Matt Crocker during his stint at Southampton and will now take the helm as the team prepares for the 2026 World Cup, hosted jointly by the USA, Mexico, and Canada.

The 52-year-old’s choice is believed to be motivated by both professional aspirations and personal reasons.

Sources suggest that the prospect of leading the USA into the World Cup and upcoming Olympics played a significant role in his decision.

In addition to a lucrative salary, there are expected to be numerous sponsorship and endorsement opportunities.

After managing at Soccer Aid this summer, Pochettino expressed to talkSPORT: « I have full energy, and I believe we ended the season strongly. »

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“Now, we just wait to see what unfolds. In football, anything can happen – one day there’s nothing, and the next a new opportunity might arise, and we are open to considering it.”

The former Tottenham manager has never taken charge of a national team, although he was linked with the England job following Gareth Southgate’s resignation after Euro 2024, where the Three Lions suffered their second consecutive final defeat.

Lee Carsley is currently serving as the interim manager of the England team until a permanent successor is appointed.

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