Mauricio Pochettino CONFIRMED as new USMNT coach after former Chelsea boss replaces Gregg Berhalter

Mauricio Pochettino has vowed to “build something special” after being officially confirmed as the new head coach of the United States men’s national team.

Almost a month after it was announced that the former Tottenham, PSG and Chelsea head coach had taken the job, Pochettino's appointment was finally made official on Tuesday.

He succeeds Gregg Berhalter, who was fired after a disastrous Copa America season in which the USA became the first host team in history to be eliminated in the group stage.

Pochettino has coached some of Europe's biggest clubs, but this is his first time working in international soccer. He will lead the USMNT to a home World Cup in 2026.

“My decision to join US Soccer was not just about soccer, but about the journey this team and this country are on,” said Pochettino, who will arrive in America on Wednesday.

He succeeds Gregg Berhalter, who was fired after a disappointing Copa America.

“The energy, the passion and the hunger to achieve something truly historic here – these are the things that inspired me.”

“The opportunity to lead the U.S. Men’s National Team in front of fans as passionate as the players was one I couldn’t pass up.”

“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.”

With the signing of Pochettino as coach of the USMNT, it means that both the coach of Chelsea's first team, both the men's and women's teams last season, are now at the helm of the US senior national teams following the signing of Emma Hayes to the US Women's National Team.

Pochettino's appointment is a declaration of intent by the US Soccer Federation with a view to the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the USA, Canada and Mexico.

Pochettino has coached some of Europe's biggest clubs, but this is his first international job

The appointment was confirmed Tuesday night, shortly before the USMNT drew with New Zealand in Cincinnati.

After the disappointment at the Copa America, the USA lost 2-1 to their rivals Canada at the weekend.

Mikey Varas served as interim coach for the games against Canada and New Zealand, which ended in another disappointment.

After Christian Pulisic had put the USA ahead with 21 minutes left, New Zealand equalised late through Ben Waine.

Pulisic spoke about the signing of Pochettino after the draw at the TQL Stadium.

“I'm just hoping for a culture that's willing to fight, that's willing to take risks and win,” Pulisic said of what Pochettino can bring to the USMNT. “There are a lot of things that need to change in the mentality and culture of the group.”

“I think we have the quality we need. But I know that hopefully that's the first thing he wants to change.”

The USMNT played 1-1 with New Zealand on Tuesday, despite Christian Pulisic scoring a goal in the second half.

Pochettino's first game as coach will be next month when the USMNT faces Panama in Texas.

“Mauricio is a serial winner with a deep passion for player development and a proven ability to build cohesive and competitive teams,” said Matt Crocker, US Soccer’s sporting director.

“His track record speaks for itself and I am convinced that he is the right choice to utilize the enormous potential of our talented squad.

“We are thrilled to have Mauricio on board as we embark on this exciting journey to succeed on the world stage.”