Manchester United Hires: Mauricio Pochettino Leaves USMNT for Premier League Club

Mauricio Pochettino will leave his position as head coach of the U.S. men's national soccer team to lead Manchester United. The Argentine manager accepted the offer from the English Premier League club after guiding the United to a Round of 16 finish at the 2026 FIFA World Cup this year.

Pochettino joined the U.S. program in 2024 with approximately 18 months remaining before the tournament. He evaluated more than 70 players during his tenure, aiming to replace what he described as a culture of complacency. His squad finished first in its group and secured the team's first knockout round victory since 2002.

During a press conference on Friday, Pochettino characterized the decision as one of the most difficult of his career. He stated that while he was excited about the national team project, the Manchester United role represented the next step to make his dreams come true. The coach recorded three wins during the World Cup, the highest number by any U.S. manager at a single tournament.

U.S. Soccer CEO J.T. Batson said Pochettino raised the standard for the federation. Batson noted that the belief in what is possible for soccer in the country has never been higher. The CEO added that the organization believes this is one of the great coaching jobs in the world and that its ambition remains high.

Midfielder Sebastian Berhalter praised Pochettino's influence on the locker room. Berhalter said the coach helped him develop as a player and a person, providing the trust and belief necessary for player growth. Pochettino had signed a contract extension in August to lead the team through the 2030 World Cup cycle.

Pochettino will coach two final matches against Haiti before departing for Manchester. Steve Cherundolo, the former U.S. international and former head coach of LAFC, will serve as interim head coach while U.S. Soccer searches for a permanent replacement for the next cycle.