Pochettino close to four-year contract extension with USMNT through 2030 World Cup

Hupu, July 29 — According to the latest reports from multiple US media outlets, the US Soccer Federation and Argentine head coach Mauricio Pochettino are "close" to finalizing an agreement for him to continue coaching the US Men's National Team. The deal has not yet been completed, but negotiations between the two sides are ongoing and making progress.

Pochettino's initial contract covered through the 2026 World Cup. Both sides have expressed a willingness to continue working together, and a renewal proposal was presented to Pochettino before the World Cup. However, the relevant negotiations were temporarily put on hold and only restarted after the US team finished its World Cup campaign.

Telemundo broadcaster Andres Cantor first reported the imminent renewal on Tuesday evening. Sources added that the proposed new contract is for four years, covering through the 2030 World Cup. The specific financial terms and details of unresolved issues in the negotiations are currently unclear.

World Cup Performance and Team Records

Under Pochettino's leadership, the US team performed well in the World Cup group stage but suffered a 1–4 defeat to Belgium in the Round of 16, exiting the tournament disappointingly. Despite this, the US team set several team records:

• Won multiple group stage matches
• Secured the top spot in the group after just two games (a first in team history)
• Won its first World Cup knockout stage victory since 2002 — though this victory came in a newly added round due to the World Cup's expansion to 48 teams

Pochettino's Comments

"The most important thing now is to rest a bit, reflect, and communicate with the federation to determine the final decision. I am very happy," Pochettino said in a press conference after the loss to Belgium. "We have built a very good relationship."

Pochettino stated in a Spanish radio interview on July 17 that a decision on his future would be announced "next week." Although that deadline has passed without a final conclusion, various signs indicate that the process of his return is actively progressing.

US Soccer Federation Statement

US Soccer Federation CEO JT Batson recently said: "From the perspective of the men's national team coach, we are actively discussing the future direction with Mauricio and his team. We all believe that the golden age of American football has not yet arrived, and they are excited about the opportunity to influence the sport at all levels and in all communities."

Tenure Highlights and Low Points

Pochettino took over as head coach of the US Men's National Team in the fall of 2024 and led the team for the first time in October of that year.

Low points:

• The manner of the World Cup exit
• Losses to Panama and Canada in the CONCACAF Nations League Finals in March 2025
• A four-game losing streak for the first time since 2007

Highlights:

• A 5–1 friendly victory over Uruguay in November 2025, which capped a five-game unbeaten run (4 wins, 0 draws, 1 loss)
• Thrilling World Cup wins over Paraguay, Australia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina

Source: New York Times

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