Chelsea fear Pochettino to USMNT for bizarre reason
The USMNT and England are both in the market for a new head coach following the departures of their respective managers after disappointing performances in recent tournaments. Mauricio Pochettino, the former Chelsea and Tottenham manager, is a top candidate for both positions. Despite the competition, the USMNT might have a distinct advantage in securing the Argentine’s services.
England‘s Gareth Southgate stepped down after leading the Three Lions to the Euro 2024 final, where they lost to Spain. On the other side of the Atlantic, the USMNT fired Gregg Berhalter following the disappointment in the 2024 Copa America. Both nations are now seeking a high-profile replacement to lead their teams forward.
Pochettino, currently unattached after leaving Chelsea in May, is free to join a national team, but there’s a catch. Within six months after his departure, he is free to join any national team without any compensation. His Blues exit came after a challenging season, though he managed to guide the team to a sixth-place finish in the Premier League. His availability makes him an attractive option for both the USMNT and England.
Who could replace Berhalter and Southgate?
While the Football Association (FA) is open to appointing a non-English manager, their preference leans towards British coaches, according to The Telegraph. This inclination might reduce Pochettino’s chances of landing the England job. The FA’s list of potential candidates includes several British managers, which could tilt the balance in favor of a local appointment.
The USMNT presents a unique opportunity for Pochettino. The United States will co-host the 2026 World Cup, marking the tournament’s first time back in North America since 1994. This prestigious event adds significant allure to the USMNT position. Pochettino could be enticed by the chance to lead a team on home soil during a World Cup, an opportunity that carries immense potential for both personal and professional growth.
Pochettino’s managerial career includes successful stints at Espanyol, Southampton and Tottenham. There, he achieved a second-place Premier League finish and reached the Champions League final. His ability to develop young talent and implement an attractive style of play aligns with the US Soccer Federation’s vision for the future. The USMNT is looking for a coach with experience managing top-level players, and Pochettino fits this profile perfectly.
Chelsea surprisingly has a say in the matter
Chelsea’s hopes that Pochettino does not take up the USMNT or England roles are partly rooted in financial considerations. If an English club were to hire Pochettino, Chelsea would receive compensation of around $6.4 million, the report adds. However, with no Premier League opportunities currently available, their preferences might not influence the manager’s decision.
While Pochettino is not the first choice for either the USMNT or England, he remains a strong contender. Jurgen Klopp has already turned down the USMNT role, further increasing the 52-year-old’s chances. For Pochettino, the decision involves weighing the immediate challenge of international management against potential future opportunities in club soccer.
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