NEW YORK (UNITED STATES) – Two wins and an inconsequential defeat to Turkey were enough for the United States to reach their first milestone at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, securing qualification for the Round of 32 as group winners.
Much of the credit goes to Mauricio Pochettino, who took charge of the U.S. men’s national team in 2024 after spells with Tottenham Hotspur, Paris Saint-Germain, and Chelsea. His work has reportedly impressed the U.S. Soccer Federation to such an extent that, despite the World Cup still being underway, he has been offered a contract extension through 2030.
According to The Athletic, negotiations have been ongoing for several months. Pochettino’s current deal expires at the end of the tournament, and both sides are expected to resume talks after the World Cup to decide whether to continue their partnership for another four-year cycle.
The federation is said to have wanted to send a clear message of confidence, particularly as Pochettino could be tempted by a return to club management. Before the appointment of Rúben Amorim, he had also been linked with AC Milan.
The prospect of leading the United States at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games, working from the national team’s new $250 million training center in Atlanta, and guiding the team into another World Cup cycle could persuade the Argentine coach to stay. The federation may also be prepared to improve his current salary, which is reportedly between $5 million and $6 million per year.
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