Mauricio Pochettino Exits USMNT for Manchester United Managerial Role

Mauricio Pochettino has officially ended his 26-month tenure with the USMNT to take over at Manchester United following a C-plus graded performance cycle.

U.S. Soccer announced Friday that Mauricio Pochettino is leaving his position as head coach of the U.S. men’s national team to become the manager of Manchester United. The Argentine departs after 26 months in charge, a tenure that concluded with a Round of 16 exit against Belgium at the World Cup. During his time with the federation, Pochettino earned approximately $6 million in annual salary.

Pochettino took over the program in September 2024 following a group stage exit at the Copa América and subsequent losses to Panama and Canada in the Concacaf Nations League. He implemented a high-pressing tactical system centered on a midfield triumvirate of Malik Tillman, Tyler Adams, and Weston McKennie. Under his leadership, the U.S. secured World Cup victories over Paraguay and Australia, and defeated Bosnia-Herzegovina while playing with 10 men at times.

Despite repairing team culture and elevating young players like Matt Freese, Alex Freeman, and Sebastian Berhalter, the team’s final World Cup standing matched finishes from 2010, 2014, and 2022. U.S. Soccer CEO JT Batson noted increased sponsor interest during the cycle, yet the manager was frequently linked to European roles and publicly praised the Premier League during his tenure.

With 43 months remaining until the 2030 World Cup, U.S. Soccer now begins a search for a replacement. Potential candidates mentioned include current U23 manager Steve Cherundolo and Nashville SC boss B.J. Callaghan.