Mauricio Pochettino nearing new deal to stay as United States manager through 2030 FIFA World Cup
Mauricio Pochettino is reportedly closing in on a new contract to remain the United States men's national team manager through to the 2030 FIFA World Cup, despite the side's disappointing exit from the 2026 tournament. The extension would give the Argentine continuity to build towards the next World Cup, which the US will co-host alongside Mexico and Canada, following a campaign that began promisingly but ended in frustration.
The USMNT topped their group at the 2026 World Cup with commanding wins over Paraguay (4-1) and Australia (2-0), clinching first place before their final group match. However, the team was knocked out in the Round of 16 by Belgium in a result widely described as a collapse, leaving fans and pundits critical of the display. Despite this setback, US Soccer appears set to back Pochettino for the long term as the federation looks ahead to the 2030 edition.
- Pochettino close to a new deal extending his USMNT tenure to 2030
- USMNT topped their 2026 World Cup group, beating Paraguay and Australia
- Team was eliminated by Belgium in the Round of 16
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Mauricio Pochettino is an Argentine football manager appointed to lead the United States men's national team for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The tournament was hosted in North America with the United States as one of three host nations.
The American side topped their group after victories over Paraguay and Australia but was eliminated by Belgium in the Round of 16. This result prompted discussion about the team's direction and future approach.
The 2030 FIFA World Cup will be co-hosted by the United States alongside Mexico and Canada, making it a tournament of particular importance for American football. The stability of the national team's management ahead of that competition is therefore of significant interest to authorities and supporters.
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Keeping Pochettino through 2030 could give the team stability and time to build on its strong group-stage performances, rather than disrupt preparations after one damaging defeat. A long-term commitment may also help establish a consistent playing style and develop players ahead of the next World Cup.
The case against
The Round of 16 defeat to Belgium raises legitimate questions about whether Pochettino can deliver when the stakes rise, especially after the team had topped its group. Committing now through 2030 could limit the federation’s ability to reassess its direction and respond to the disappointment with a change in leadership.