Mauricio Pochettino Praises USMNT's Future Ahead of Exit for Manchester United HC Job

Former United States Men's National Team coach Mauricio Pochettino was optimistic about the USMNT's long-term outlook after leaving his role to become Manchester United's new manager.

"There is an amazing future in this country with the national team," Pochettino told reporters on Saturday.

Pochettino and Manchester United finalized his contract on Friday, although he remained with the USMNT for a Concacaf Nations League quarterfinal match with Haiti on Saturday. He'll also coach during the team's clash with Haiti on Tuesday before eventually joining his new club.

Pochettino was initially hired as coach of the USMNT in Sept. 2024, compiling a 21-12-2 record during his tenure.

He helped the U.S. squad finish atop its 2026 World Cup group before securing a 2-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina in the round of 32, representing the team's first knockout round victory since 2002.

The USMNT were eventually eliminated from the World Cup by Belgium in the round of 16.

The next coach of the United States is uncertain, although former Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has been linked to the position.

With rising stars such as Cavan Sullivan and Julian Hall joining established USMNT contributors including Christian Pulisic and Folarin Balogun, Pochettino believes that the future of the squad is bright.