Mauricio Pochettino has officially been named head coach of the US men's national soccer team.
The former Tottenham and Chelsea manager, who left the Blues by mutual consent at the end of last season, will lead the Americans to their home World Cup in 2026. The competition will then be held in three countries - the United States, Canada and Mexico.
It is the first time Pochettino, 52, has taken charge of a national team. In addition to Tottenham and Chelsea, he also managed Espanyol, Southampton and Paris Saint-Germain at club level during his 15-year coaching career.
Pochettino replaces United States coach Greg Berhalter, who was fired after the United States failed to get out of their group in this year's edition of the Copa America, which was held in the US.
"The decision to lead the US national team wasn't just about football — it's about the journey this team and country have taken. The energy, the passion and the hunger to achieve something truly historic here - those are the things that inspired me. The opportunity to lead the US men's national team in front of fans who are just as passionate as the players is something I couldn't turn down. I see a group of players full of talent and potential, and together we will build something special that the whole nation can be proud of", commented Pochettino.
The Argentine will make his debut in a friendly against Panama at home in Austin on Oct. 12, before the team visits Mexico in another friendly three days later. | BGNES
