Pochettino holds talks with AC Milan ahead of World Cup
Reports confirm Mauricio Pochettino met with representatives of the Serie A side before the 2026 tournament, though his primary focus remains on the United States’ campaign.
Mauricio Pochettino, the head coach of the United States men’s national team, has held discussions with representatives from AC Milan regarding their vacant head coaching position. The meeting took place shortly before the commencement of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which is co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Pochettino’s current contract with the United States Soccer Federation (USSF) is set to expire following the tournament.
AC Milan is seeking a successor to Massimiliano Allegri after failing to secure Champions League qualification for the upcoming season. The Italian club has identified Pochettino as a potential candidate, although the Argentine manager has indicated he may remain with the USMNT. He is considered a sought-after candidate globally, with other opportunities available in the international game.
The United States role marks Pochettino’s first foray into managing a national team, following previous managerial positions at Espanyol, Southampton, Tottenham, Paris Saint-Germain, and Chelsea. The man who appointed him, former USMNT sporting director Matt Crocker, has already departed his role to become sporting director for the Saudi Arabian national team ahead of their 2034 World Cup hosting duties.
While coaches have faced dismissal from national teams for taking club roles prior to leading their country at a World Cup, Pochettino’s situation differs from that of Julen Lopetegui. Lopetegui was dismissed from the Spanish national team in 2018 after agreeing to take over Real Madrid, a move that occurred after the tournament had begun. Pochettino’s meeting is understood to have taken place during a period of free time before the tournament, distinct from Lopetegui’s circumstances which involved a signed agreement.
AC Milan is also considering other options, with former Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola viewed as a frontrunner but reportedly preferring moves to Liverpool or Bayer Leverkusen. Additionally, sources indicate the club met with Ralf Rangnick regarding a technical director role, which may influence their final coaching decision. The USMNT faces upcoming tune-up friendlies against Senegal and Germany before their World Cup opener against Paraguay on 12 June.
