Pochettino Linked to Old Trafford
Mauricio Pochettino, the current head coach of the USA national football team, is at the centre of intense speculation linking him to the vacant managerial role at Manchester United. This follows the recent dismissal of Michael Carrick from the Old Trafford club. Amidst these reports, key USA players have spoken highly of Pochettino’s significant impact on the national team programme.
Player Praise for Pochettino
Sebastian Berhalter, who featured in all five of the USA’s 2026 FIFA World Cup matches under Pochettino, expressed deep gratitude for his coach. “I can’t thank him enough,” Berhalter stated, adding that Pochettino “meant so much to me and helped me develop as a player and as a person.” Before Pochettino’s arrival, Berhalter had not played international football. However, a string of strong performances for the Vancouver Whitecaps led to his call-up for the 2025 Gold Cup and subsequent World Cup inclusion, where he scored in the group stage.
Striker Folarin Balogun, who led the USA with three goals in four World Cup appearances under Pochettino, including crucial game-winners against Paraguay and Bosnia and Herzegovina, echoed similar sentiments. “Poch has definitely raised the standard since he’s been in charge,” Balogun commented. He highlighted changes in “the intensity of training, how we approach games,” noting that Pochettino “changed our way of thinking as players” and “laid the foundation.”
Impact on the USA National Team
Both players believe Pochettino significantly elevated the USA programme’s standards. Berhalter noted that despite being an Argentinian coach, Pochettino “made us even more proud to be American,” which he felt “speaks volumes of who he is as a person and as a coach.” The USA national team is currently preparing for a Concacaf Nations League quarterfinal.
Uncertain Future for Both Sides
While nothing official has been confirmed regarding Pochettino’s potential move, the speculation is intense following Carrick’s departure from Manchester United. For the USA squad, the prospect of losing their coach is met with regret. Balogun openly stated, “If I had a vote, I would like to keep things the way they are.” He emphasised the team’s clear identity and playing style under Pochettino, calling it a “no-brainer” to want a top coach to stay.
Looking ahead, Balogun remains optimistic about the USA’s trajectory, regardless of who might replace Pochettino. “I’m sure that the U.S. will look to replace him with another good coach,” he remarked. While Pep Guardiola is mentioned as a ‘dream candidate’ for the USA role, it is noted that he might not be interested just six months after leaving Manchester City.