U.S. Soccer and Mauricio Pochettino Near Agreement on New Contract

U.S. Soccer and Argentine coach Mauricio Pochettino are close to finalising a new contract that would keep him in charge of the men’s national team through the 2030 World Cup, sources said. The current agreement, which runs until the 2026 tournament, was extended verbally before the World Cup but formal negotiations were paused until after the team’s elimination in the round of 16.

The proposed four-year deal has not yet disclosed financial details, and discussions continue on remaining points. Pochettino, who led the United States to a group-stage victory and a historic first-place finish before a 4-1 loss to Belgium, said after the match that he was “so happy” and highlighted the strong relationship built with the federation.

U.S. Soccer CEO JT Batson confirmed that “we’re in active discussions with Mauricio and staff about the future” and noted that the coach and his team remain involved in long-term planning, including the recent appointment of Steve Cherundolo to lead the 2028 Olympic squad.

Pochettino, appointed in late 2024, has overseen a mixed record that includes a five-game unbeaten run and a 5-1 friendly win over Uruguay, alongside defeats to Panama, Canada and a brief losing streak. The renewal discussion also raises questions about his commitment to a full four-year cycle, given past speculation about a return to club football.

If the agreement is signed, both parties will need to address the coach’s salary and the broader agenda of youth development and structural reforms within U.S. Soccer.