Mauricio Pochettino is reportedly set to depart his role as U.S. men’s national team head coach, with Manchester United reportedly targeting him as the successor to Michael Carrick. This potential move comes despite Pochettino having a contract with U.S. Soccer that runs through the 2030 World Cup.
Pochettino’s Contract and Manchester United Interest
Reports indicate that Manchester United would need to trigger a buyout clause, reportedly worth nearly $10 million, to secure Pochettino’s release from his current deal. Additional costs would also be incurred for bringing along his long-serving assistant coaches.
Despite the speculation surrounding his future, Pochettino is expected to remain on the U.S. sideline for at least two more matches. He is currently with the team preparing for their Concacaf Nations League quarterfinal fixtures against Haiti. These crucial matches are scheduled for Saturday in Miami and Tuesday in Cincinnati. Pochettino is also expected to address the media on Friday as part of his usual pre-match routine.
As of now, Manchester United has not officially dismissed Michael Carrick, nor have they made formal contact with U.S. Soccer regarding Pochettino’s contract. The club has the remainder of the international break to finalise a replacement before their next Premier League fixture against Liverpool on 22 November.
USMNT Succession Planning
Should Pochettino leave, U.S. Soccer is reportedly considering several high-profile candidates to lead the national team into the 2030 World Cup cycle. Pep Guardiola, the former Manchester City manager, has emerged as a top target. Guardiola has reportedly had previous discussions with the federation and is understood to be intrigued by the prospect of working in the United States.
Several American coaches are also being considered for the USMNT role:
- B.J. Callaghan: Currently coaching Nashville SC, Callaghan led the team to a record-breaking MLS regular season points total. He also has prior experience with the USMNT, having guided them to the 2023 Concacaf Nations League title as interim coach.
- Michael Bradley: The former USMNT captain, with 151 caps, is in the early stages of his coaching career. He led Red Bull New York’s reserve team to an MLS Next Pro title and now manages their first team. His deep understanding of the American player pool is seen as a significant asset.
- Ante Cherundolo: Hired by the federation in July to lead the U.S. under-23 team through the 2028 Olympics, Cherundolo is already working closely with the next generation of American talent. His coaching résumé includes an MLS Cup and Supporters’ Shield with LAFC.
- Wilfried Nancy: The French coach has built a strong reputation in MLS, winning the 2021 Canadian Championship with CF Montréal and the 2023 MLS Cup with Columbus Crew, where he was also named MLS Coach of the Year in 2024.
The coming days are expected to bring further clarity regarding Pochettino’s future and the leadership of both Manchester United and the U.S. men’s national team.