USMNT Succession Plan Post-Pochettino: Who Will Lead After the World Cup?

- As Mauricio Pochettino's departure looms, U.S. Soccer faces the challenge of finding a successor. Potential candidates include Deschamps, Southgate, Cherundolo, and even Guardiola.

USMNT Succession Plan Post-Pochettino

As Mauricio Pochettino's tenure with the USMNT nears its end, U.S. Soccer is tasked with finding a worthy successor to lead the team. The departure of sporting director Matt Crocker has added to the uncertainty surrounding the team's future leadership.

Bar Raised Permanently?

Pochettino's hiring marked a shift in U.S. Soccer's ambitions, raising the question of whether the federation will continue to aim for top-tier managers post-Pochettino era. U.S. Soccer CEO J.T. Batson emphasized attracting world-class talent and maintaining a high standard.

Potential Candidates

Several names have emerged as potential successors to Pochettino, including Didier Deschamps, Gareth Southgate, Steve Cherundolo, B.J. Callaghan, and Pellegrino Matarazzo. The possibility of pursuing Manchester City's Pep Guardiola has also been raised, although it remains speculative.

Guardiola's Potential Role

While Guardiola's contract with Manchester City extends until 2027, uncertainties surrounding his future have sparked speculation about a potential move to the USMNT. Guardiola's familiarity with the U.S. and the USSF's track record of ambitious hires have fueled rumors about this unlikely but intriguing scenario.