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U.S. Soccer Weighs Pochettino Deal After Belgium Blowout

7/10/2026

Summary

Pochettino Contract Uncertain

U.S. Soccer said it is still weighing a contract extension for Mauricio Pochettino after the 4-1 loss to Belgium ended the 2026 World Cup run.
The defeat occurred in Seattle on Monday, marking the United States’ worst knockout-stage loss.
The federation offered Pochettino a new contract that would run through the 2030 World Cup.
Critics point out that Pochettino’s 22-month tenure includes seven losses in eight games against European opponents.

Summary

USMNT Defender Shortage

The tournament analysis flagged a shortage of central defenders for the senior USMNT squad.
Veteran defender Tim Ream appeared past his prime against Belgium, exposing age-related decline.
Defender Chris Richards could not track runners or make sound decisions, underscoring centre-back depth problems.
Goalkeeper Matt Freese, a peripheral player whose costly error drew criticism, highlighted that the US no longer fields Premier League-level keepers as in 2006 and 2010.

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Pochettino Contract Uncertain

U.S. Soccer said it is still weighing a contract extension for Mauricio Pochettino after the 4-1 loss to Belgium ended the 2026 World Cup run.
The defeat occurred in Seattle on Monday, marking the United States’ worst knockout-stage loss.
The federation offered Pochettino a new contract that would run through the 2030 World Cup.
Critics point out that Pochettino’s 22-month tenure includes seven losses in eight games against European opponents.

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