Pochettino’s tearful exit fuels doubts over USMNT’s 2030 World Cup

Mauricio Pochettino announced on Friday that he will leave the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) next week to become Manchester United’s head coach. The announcement came 102 days after he signed a four‑year contract to extend his tenure that began in the fall of 2024.

Departure and emotional farewell

Pochettino struggled to hold back tears at the press conference and said “I’m talking with my heart” while choking up. His farewell will follow CONCACAF Nations League quarter‑finals against Haiti in Miami on Saturday and another match in Cincinnati on Tuesday before he departs for Old Trafford.

Manchester United appointment

Manchester United, which Pochettino described as “Manchester bloody‑freakin’ United”, had spoken to him on three previous occasions and is seeking a new manager after its worst start in 40 years. He said he never claimed he wanted to return to Europe but noted that opportunities like Manchester United are rare and that he hopes to extend his commitment to the United States through the 2030 World Cup.

Legacy and federation response

He worked with players such as Christian Pulisic on Friday ahead of his final two matches as USMNT coach. Pochettino’s résumé includes a Champions League runner‑up medal with Tottenham Hotspur and spells at Paris Saint‑Germain and Chelsea. During his US tenure he was linked with possible jobs in the Premier League, La Liga, Serie A and other major European leagues. Tottenham Hotspur and AC Milan were reportedly pursuing him in his first 18 months in the role.

The 2026 World Cup, his first as a coach, was on the horizon when those approaches occurred. Pochettino described his work with the United States as “a project and a program we were evolving together”, adding that leaving was a “very sad decision” but also a professional step to achieve his dreams. The United States failed to progress beyond the World Cup round of 16, the typical exit for the nation. He leaves the programme with greater squad depth, a stronger culture, a more pleasant playing style and heightened confidence and pride.

The World Cup on home soil, up to the Belgium elimination match, captured hearts and boosted enthusiasm for soccer across the country. US Soccer chief executive J.T. Batson said the team now has great momentum and that Mauricio and his staff have raised the standard, adding belief in what’s possible for soccer in the United States has never been higher. Batson and his colleagues were criticised for not foreseeing Pochettino’s departure, despite the 102‑day window. Pochettino is Argentine but identifies as a European club coach at heart.

The US Soccer Federation included a $10 million release clause in Pochettino’s contract that United must pay to trigger his exit. Batson said those funds are available for the federation to invest in achieving its goals, including hiring a world‑class coach. Pochettino earned about $6 million, a USSF record salary. His appointment two years ago was financially supported by hedge‑fund manager Scott Goodwin and billionaire Ken Griffin, who helped buffer his salary.

It is unclear whether the benefactors will seek repayment from USSF or continue to support the federation. The search for Pochettino’s successor, led by Batson and chief operating officer Dan Helfrich, will begin immediately. Former women’s national team coach Emma Hayes will assist in the search. Steve Cherundolo, the under‑23 coach preparing the 2028 Olympic team and a possible senior candidate, is also involved.