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Pochettino expected to lead US in Nations League games before Manchester United move
Mauricio Pochettino is expected to remain in charge of the United States men’s team for its two upcoming Concacaf Nations League quarter-final matches against Haiti, despite emerging as Manchester United’s leading candidate for manager. The timing matters because United have approached US Soccer and are discussing a move while Pochettino is still leading the national team through the international window.
The US play Haiti in Miami on Saturday and in Cincinnati on Tuesday. Pochettino and United have agreed a framework for a deal, and the club would need to pay a reported $10m (£7.5m) buyout clause, with further costs expected for his assistant coaches. Pochettino is due to speak to reporters on Friday; striker Folarin Balogun said he would prefer the current arrangement to continue.
In short
- Pochettino is expected to coach the US against Haiti twice.
- Manchester United have contacted US Soccer about hiring him.
- A reported $10m buyout clause applies.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Pochettino staying through the Haiti matches would honour his current commitment and give the US team continuity during important quarter-finals. A short delay could also allow any move to United to be handled transparently, including agreement on compensation and arrangements for his staff.
The case against
If Manchester United and Pochettino have reached a framework for a deal, leaving him in charge while the move is being discussed could create divided attention and uncertainty for the US squad. United could argue that clarity about their next manager matters for their own planning, while US Soccer may need time to prepare a stable transition rather than prolong an arrangement that is about to end.