Argentinian Mauricio Pochettino, former Chelsea coach, has been appointed coach of the United States national team, the United States Football Federation announced on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, replacing Gregg Berhalter, who was sacked in July after the team’s elimination in the group stage of the Copa America.
“Mauricio is a serial winner who has a deep passion for player development and a proven ability to build cohesive, competitive teams.”said Matt Crocker, the sporting director of the American Federation.
“His results speak for themselves and I am convinced that he is the best choice to exploit the immense potential of our talented team”he continued.
Host country of the Copa America, the United States suffered a pitiful elimination in the group stages of the competition played at home after two defeats (Uruguay, Panama) and one victory (Bolivia).
The team hopes to show a better face at the 2026 World Cup, which it will jointly host with Mexico and Canada.
No details on the length of his contract were given, but Pochettino will be expected to lead the team at the next World Cup.
“I see a group of players full of talent and potential, and together we will build something special that the whole nation can be proud of.”the technician reacted.
Pochettino left Chelsea in May after just one season in charge and previously coached Paris Saint-Germain where he had a taste of the Messi/Neymar/Mbappe attacking trio, Tottenham Hotspur, Southampton and Barcelona’s Espanyol.
The Argentine managed to lead Tottenham to the Champions League final in 2019, and played a key role in the development of England captain Harry Kane’s career.
He is the second non-American to be appointed to the post, after German Jurgen Klinsmann, who left in 2016.
With AFP
