The Athletic reported that Mauricio Pochettino and his team are expected to lead the USMNT in a friendly against Canada on September 7, but he has not yet completely resolved his contract situation with Chelsea.
The US Soccer Federation is still working to finalize Pochettino’s contract, and issues with his previous club, Chelsea, including severance pay, have not been resolved.
If all goes according to plan, Pochettino will travel with the team to Kansas City for the friendly against Canada on September 7, followed by a match against New Zealand in Cincinnati three days later.
It is not yet certain whether Pochettino will be the head coach for the US-Canada match. A source familiar with the negotiations told the media that discussions between the USSF, Pochettino’s team, and Chelsea are ongoing and progressing well. However, the source requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the deal.
The 52-year-old Pochettino has been described as “very excited” about the opportunity to coach the US team in the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. His good relationship with USSF sporting director Matt Crocker is one of the key reasons why Pochettino is willing to accept the USMNT job.
According to media reports, USSF business partners have provided ways to increase Pochettino’s income, as the USSF’s budget alone cannot offer him a sufficiently generous package. Sponsors and donors have expressed support for Pochettino to lead the USMNT.
This article is from a user submission and does not represent the views of Soccer News Pick. If you repost it, please indicate the source: https://www.soccernewspick.com/other/20815.html
