U.S. Soccer in talks to retain Pochettino after World Cup

U.S. Soccer is in active discussions to retain head coach Mauricio Pochettino beyond the 2026 FIFA World Cup, federation CEO J.T. Batson confirmed on Thursday, July 16. This marks a significant shift from the widespread expectation that Pochettino would depart after his contract expired following the tournament, which the United States co-hosted with Canada and Mexico.

The U.S. men's national team was eliminated in the round of 16 on July 9, suffering a 4-1 defeat to Belgium in Seattle. Despite the disappointing exit, Batson expressed optimism about continuing with Pochettino and his staff, citing their involvement in long-term federation planning. He noted the staff played a key role in the recent hiring of Steve Cherundolo as the men's Olympic team coach.

Batson did not provide a timeline for a final decision, stating the federation planned to take a break after the World Cup. Pochettino, for his part, has been non-committal, telling reporters after the Belgium loss that it was a moment to assess the tournament and that discussions could begin in the coming weeks if U.S. Soccer wished to talk.

The team's World Cup performance presented a complex assessment. The Americans won...