Full Breakdown
Pochettino’s Milan Talks Amid USMNT World Cup Preparations
5/28/2026, 11:19:04 PM
Immediate Development
In the week before May 28 2026, United States men’s national team head coach Mauricio Pochettino met with AC Milan officials in Georgia to discuss the Italian club’s vacant head-coach position.
Background
Pochettino was hired in September 2024 to lead the USMNT through the 2026 World Cup, which the United States will co-host with Canada and Mexico. His contract expires at the tournament’s conclusion, and his record with the national team stands at 13-7-2.
Key Stakeholders
- Mauricio Pochettino – USMNT head coach, former manager of Southampton, Tottenham, Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea.
- JT Batson – CEO of the U.S. Soccer Federation.
- Tyler Adams – USMNT midfielder.
- Massimiliano Allegri – recently dismissed AC Milan head coach.
- Andoni Iraola, Antonio Conte, Ralf Rangnick – other candidates mentioned for Milan.
Timeline
- Early May 2026 – Pochettino meets Milan representatives.
- 28 May 2026 – USMNT training camp opens at the National Training Center in Fayetteville, Ga.; Batson addresses the rumors.
- 30 May – USMNT plays a friendly against Senegal in Charlotte, NC.
- 6 June – USMNT faces Germany in Chicago.
- 12 June – World Cup opener versus Paraguay at SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, CA.
Data & Statistics
Official Statements & Responses
Batson said the federation has “a longer list of outreach than what has even been reported” and emphasized that Pochettino and his staff have been “incredibly transparent” about club interest. He added that US Soccer holds monthly succession-planning meetings covering renewals, interims and replacements. Pochettino replied that he is “open” to staying if “the federation is happy.” Adams affirmed that the coaching talks have not distracted the squad, noting that the focus remains on the World Cup.
Criticism & Opposition
Former USMNT forward Herculez Gómez criticized the timing, calling it “a terrible look” and suggesting Pochettino had been planning to leave. Some fans echoed concerns that discussing a club job during final preparations could affect team cohesion.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
US Soccer declined to confirm the Milan talks, while Batson stressed transparency and focus. Media outlets differ on whether the meeting was a formal interview or an exploratory discussion, and no contractual terms have been disclosed.
Why It Matters
The proximity of the Milan talks to the World Cup raises questions about the USMNT’s preparation focus and could influence squad morale. Simultaneously, AC Milan’s need for a new coach after Allegri’s dismissal makes the meeting strategically relevant for both parties.
What’s Next
The USMNT will complete its pre-World Cup friendlies against Senegal (30 May) and Germany (6 June) before opening the tournament against Paraguay (12 June). Post-World Cup, US Soccer will decide whether to extend Pochettino’s contract or appoint a new head coach, while AC Milan continues its search for a permanent manager.
Verbatim Quotes
- “there’s been a longer list of outreach than what has even been reported.” — JT Batson, US Soccer CEO
- “Our focus has to be here on the World Cup,” — Tyler Adams, USMNT midfielder
- “I think as any manager or player, there’s guys in contract situations right now that have to figure out what to do either before the World Cup, after the World Cup. It’s gonna be the same deal as coaches. He’s fully present with us every single day, finding ways to make us better, focusing on the trainings just as we are.” — Tyler Adams, USMNT midfielder
- “There are a few truths here. 1) He was always planning to leave, despite what he may have said before. 2) Not the first time he’s thrown his hat into the ring while managing the USMNT. 3) This is a terrible look, even the Pochettino apologist would have to admit it.” — Herculez Gómez, former USMNT forward
- “The meeting took place last week ahead of the USMNT’s World Cup camp in Georgia,” The Athletic's James Horncastle reports.” — The Athletic (report)
