Pochettino to leave USMNT for Manchester United in two-and-a-half-year deal

Mauricio Pochettino will step down as head coach of the United States men’s national soccer team on November 18. The 54-year-old manager, originally from Murphy in Santa Fe province, Argentina, has agreed to a two-and-a-half-year contract with Manchester United.

Manchester United announced the hiring on Friday. Pochettino will take over for the remainder of the current season and through 2029. He replaces Michael Carrick, who was dismissed earlier this week. The club currently holds the 18th position in the 20-team English Premier League.

In statements released by the United States Soccer Federation, Pochettino described leading the national team as one of the greatest honors of his career. He expressed gratitude to the players for their commitment, the fans for their support, and the federation for backing staff and helping shape soccer culture in the United States.

The former manager of Espanyol, Southampton, Tottenham, and Chelsea praised the development system in American soccer. He noted that talent exists from the youth levels up to the senior team, which builds confidence in the sport’s future. He said the U.S. teams will always hold a special place in his heart and that he will continue to support them.

Pochettino served as the U.S. head coach starting in September 2024. During his tenure, the team recorded 21 wins, 12 losses, and two draws in 25 matches. His squad reached the final of the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup and the round of 16 in the 2026 World Cup. He also secured the first victory in a World Cup qualifier since 2002, setting a national record with three wins.

Pochettino and his assistant staff will remain with the U.S. team for the upcoming Concacaf Nations League quarterfinals. The matches against Haiti are scheduled for Saturday and Tuesday. These games will serve as his final official matches with the national side before his move to Manchester.