Mauricio Pochettino has signed a contract extension to remain as head coach of the United States men's national team through 2026, with the Argentine now taking on a wider role in shaping the country's soccer future. His stated goal is to transform the USMNT into a global power in the sport, a vision he is pursuing as the team prepares for a key run of friendlies this autumn.
Pochettino's new deal comes at a key moment for the program. The team's recent form has been challenging, with four losses in their last five matches, including a heavy 4-1 defeat to Belgium in July. They face Peru at home on September 26th, the first of four friendlies this fall that also includes games against Chile, Mexico, and Canada. The team's next fixture after that is a key home match against Chile on October 10th, where they will be looking to improve on a record of just one win in their last five games.
A broader vision
Beyond matchday duties, Pochettino will now have significant influence over youth development and coaching education as U.S. Soccer undergoes a structural overhaul. The federation is creating two new director roles to oversee the senior and youth programs for both the men's and women's national teams. "I am happy to help with the restructuring process," Pochettino said, embracing the chance to build a lasting legacy.
His ambition is clear. "We want to try to perform in the World Cup and to create something special with the fans," Pochettino stated. "And now it's about being a part of the legacy that the federation wants to create, becoming one of the most powerful countries in soccer. That is a dream, no? It's amazing."
Addressing player commitment
The coach also addressed what he sees as a cultural issue within American soccer, criticizing young players for prioritizing club commitments over national team call-ups. He argued that teenage prospects should be treated differently from established veterans. "You cannot rest at 17," Pochettino said, recalling his own youth in Argentina. "When I was 17, 16, or 15, all of my teammates, when we played in Newell's Old Boys, sometimes you play two, three games in the same day."
He believes this mindset shift is essential for developing the depth needed to compete at the highest level, particularly with major tournaments like the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and a potential Copa América appearance on the horizon.
Squad updates and dual nationals
Pochettino provided updates on several players ahead of the upcoming camp. Forward Folarin Balogun, whose proposed transfer to Everton collapsed on deadline day, has the coach's support. The 25-year-old Monaco striker is a key figure, and Pochettino said he wants to understand what happened and hopes Balogun finds the right environment to perform.
Meanwhile, 19-year-old German-American defender Noahkai Banks will not be involved in this camp as he continues to weigh his international future. Pochettino confirmed ongoing contact with dual-national players, stressing the importance of personal connection in their decisions. "The human connection is vital," he emphasized, a key part of his recruitment philosophy which fans can track through our squad listings.
The team's immediate focus is on reversing their recent slide, a task that begins against Peru. With only one win in their last five outings, improving the standings in future competitions is most important. Pochettino's expanded role and long-term contract signal a firm commitment to building that future, starting with the friendly in late September.
First reported at theguardian.com
