Mauricio Pochettino Extends Contract as USMNT Coach Through 2030

Mauricio Pochettino has renewed his contract to remain the head coach of the U.S. Soccer men’s national team until the 2030 World Cup. This decision comes after Pochettino, aged 54, led the team to the round of 16 in the 2026 World Cup, which took place in the United States.

JT Batson, the CEO and Secretary General of U.S. Soccer, stated, “Mauricio and his staff believe in the future of soccer in the United States. Our new project allows us to build on the progress of the USMNT and U.S. Soccer’s momentum.” He emphasized the goal of winning Men’s World Cups and making soccer the most popular sport nationwide. Batson expressed enthusiasm about Pochettino and his team’s dedication to these ambitions.

Though he had coached high-profile clubs like Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain, Pochettino had never led a national team before taking over the U.S. men’s program in 2024. Initially, his results were varied, with a 15-10-1 record by the 2026 World Cup. However, his attacking style gained acclaim as the U.S. won its group and set a team record for goals. They defeated Bosnia-Herzegovina in the round of 32 but faced a 4-1 defeat by Belgium in the round of 16.

After the World Cup exit, Pochettino expressed appreciation for his relationship with U.S. Soccer leadership, who had already proposed a contract extension before the tournament. Despite his Argentine background, he endeared himself to U.S. fans by joining in with John Denver’s “Take Me Home, Country Roads” after matches. The new contract retains a coach who has highlighted the team’s improvements and intends to foster further growth.

Pochettino remarked, “I am proud because in one year, this team showed that we can play football, we can play soccer, we can compete.” He noted the necessity to continue the team’s progression after a challenging 2025 Gold Cup.

Details of Pochettino’s contract remain undisclosed, but his previous deal was reportedly approximately $6 million annually, the most substantial contract in U.S. soccer history. To secure Pochettino from club offers in 2024, U.S. Soccer sought private investment from individuals like Ken Griffin to fund his salary.

This story is evolving, and further updates will be provided.