Manchester United pays $10 million to lift Pochettino off U.S. national team
The Argentine coach departs less than 24 hours after reports surfaced, leaving the USMNT to name an interim lead before a Nations League quarterfinal against Haiti.
By Lucia Herrera ·
Mauricio Pochettino will manage Manchester United starting this month, ending his tenure with the United States men's national team after the club triggered a release clause in his contract.
U.S. Soccer and Manchester United announced on Friday, Nov. 13, that the 54-year-old Argentine has stepped down from the American program to replace Michael Carrick at Old Trafford. The deal was finalized by paying a fee widely reported to be around $10 million, allowing Pochettino to exit his role immediately.
The move comes less than 24 hours after initial reports that United had targeted Pochettino. His departure abruptly cuts short a tenure that began in September 2024. During his time in charge, he guided the U.S. to the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He had signed a long-term extension in August 2026, committing to remain with the federation through the 2030 World Cup.
At a press conference in New York, Pochettino became visibly emotional while addressing reporters alongside U.S. Soccer President Cindy Parlow Cone and CEO JT Batson. He described the exit as a painful choice.
"It's difficult now to talk for me because I think I am a very emotional guy," Pochettino said. "Maybe I didn't prepare that speech. I am talking with my heart."
Pochettino praised Batson for his transparency during the process, stating, "You never lied to us.. That is why that is really difficult decision, but we need to move forward." He credited the players for helping the team recover its motivation and capacity to dream big.
The sudden transition forces U.S. Soccer to name an interim coach before the team plays Haiti in a CONCACAF Nations League quarterfinal. The first leg is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 14, in Miami, with the second leg on Tuesday, Nov. 17, in Cincinnati. The federation must also launch a search for a permanent replacement to guide the program into the next World Cup cycle.
Pochettino returns to the English Premier League, where he previously managed Southampton, Tottenham Hotspur, and Chelsea. He inherits a Manchester United squad currently ranked 18th in the standings, facing an immediate relegation battle. He is expected to be on the sidelines for United's match against Liverpool on Nov. 22.
