Pochettino in preliminary talks with AC Milan

United States men's national team head coach Mauricio Pochettino has held preliminary discussions with Italian Serie A club AC Milan regarding their vacant managerial position. The talks occurred last week as Pochettino prepares the U.S. squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which the United States will co-host this summer.

Pochettino’s contract with U.S. Soccer is set to expire following the tournament. U.S. Soccer CEO JT Batson acknowledged the discussions, stating that Pochettino and his staff have been transparent about interest from clubs throughout their tenure. Batson noted that Pochettino had turned down other offers to lead the national team and remains a believer in the project. When asked about his commitment, Pochettino said people questioning it want to create a problem, but he did not deny having informal conversations with interested parties over the past two years.

AC Milan is seeking a new manager after parting ways with Massimiliano Allegri, who was dismissed following a season the club’s leadership described as an unequivocal failure. Milan finished fifth in Serie A, failing to qualify for the UEFA Champions League after a final-day home loss to Cagliari. The...