U.S. Soccer eyes Pep Guardiola as target to replace Mauricio Pochettino

U.S. Soccer has reportedly identified former Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola as a primary candidate to lead the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) should current head coach Mauricio Pochettino depart. This development follows intensifying reports linking Pochettino to the vacant managerial position at Manchester United. The English club has identified the current USMNT coach as a leading choice to stabilize the team at Old Trafford following the departure of Michael Carrick.

The potential vacancy within the American national team setup comes at a critical juncture for U.S. Soccer. Although Pochettino was only recently appointed to lead the squad toward the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the sudden availability of the Manchester United role has shifted the coaching landscape. U.S. Soccer officials are reportedly aiming for an ambitious appointment to ensure that the progress made under Pochettino’s brief tenure is sustained and built upon by a world-class successor.

Pep Guardiola, who recently left Manchester City after a storied tenure, is regarded as one of the most successful managers in football history. With an impressive track record that includes multiple titles at Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and in the Premier League, Guardiola represents a high-profile target for a federation looking to make a global impact. His tactical expertise and experience managing elite talent are seen as ideal qualities for a national team seeking to elevate its performance on the world stage.

While Pochettino remains in his current role, U.S. Soccer appears to be preparing for all contingencies. The federation is focused on maintaining the momentum of the national team program and views a potential move for Guardiola as a statement of intent. As the situation at Manchester United develops, the USMNT’s leadership remains on high alert to secure a top-tier replacement if their head coach returns to the Premier League.