U.S. Soccer sporting director Matt Crocker received an unexpected message from Mauricio Pochettino while standing in his home gym in Southampton, England. Several days earlier, the U.S. had failed to progress from the group stage at Copa America, under coach Gregg Berhalter. Amid a comprehensive review and evaluation process, Pochettino—former manager of Southampton, Tottenham Hotspur, Paris Saint-Germain, and Chelsea—emerged as a top candidate.
Crocker, who had previously worked with Pochettino at Southampton in 2014, reached out via a mutual friend. Pochettino responded positively, leading to an in-depth phone conversation between the two former colleagues. They reminisced about their past and discussed a potential meeting in Barcelona to discuss a project that would mark Pochettino’s debut in international soccer.
On July 16, days after the Copa America final, Crocker, along with U.S. Soccer chief executive JT Batson and vice president of sporting operations Elaine Lemos, flew to Barcelona. In a hotel suite conference room, they met with Pochettino and his long-time assistant, Jesus Perez. The American contingent presented their vision, covering the highs and lows of the USMNT’s recent performances and their plans for the 2026 World Cup on home soil. The conversation extended far beyond the planned duration, stretching into an engaging four-hour dialogue.
Pochettino was captivated by the potential of coaching at a World Cup, particularly with a young U.S. team. Several in-depth meetings followed, and U.S. Soccer’s ambitious pursuit led them through extensive travel across Europe, engaging with high-profile coaches, including Jurgen Klopp, Pep Guardiola, and Gareth Southgate.
Eventually, Pochettino and Perez detailed their own coaching philosophies and plans. Emma Hayes, the U.S. women’s national team coach, who had developed a rapport with Pochettino, actively endorsed him to U.S. Soccer officials.
Financial negotiations posed another hurdle. Despite Pochettino’s history as one of the highest-paid coaches, U.S. Soccer had to offer a competitive package, necessitating creative solutions, including substantial donor support from billionaire Ken Griffin. The federation’s negotiations with Chelsea, where Pochettino was still under contract, were prolonged and complicated.
Despite delays, including logistical hiccups and Pochettino’s obligations to Chelsea, the deal finally came together. Legal and financial arrangements ensured Pochettino’s smooth transition, and the contract included provisions to protect U.S. Soccer from European poaching before the World Cup.
Finally, on a significant Sunday, the U.S. Soccer board voted to approve Pochettino’s appointment. The official announcement was made just before the USMNT’s friendly against New Zealand.
Mauricio Pochettino’s task is substantial but filled with promise. As he steps into his new role, the hope is that he will spark a transformative era for the U.S. men’s national team, mirroring the impactful tenure of Emma Hayes with the women’s team. With ambitions of creating a winning legacy, Pochettino’s journey with the U.S. crest begins.
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