USSF sets sights on Guardiola to replace Pochettino as USA head coach

The United States Soccer Federation is preparing to pursue Pep Guardiola as its next men’s national team head coach, with Mauricio Pochettino reportedly in advanced talks to succeed Michael Carrick at Manchester United, according to a report from The Athletic published on Wednesday.

Guardiola, widely regarded as one of the greatest managers in European football history, left Manchester City at the end of the 2025-26 season after stating he no longer had the “energy” to compete for Premier League titles. Across 17 years managing FC Barcelona (2008–2012), FC Bayern Munich (2013–2016), and Manchester City (2016–2026), he accumulated three Champions League titles, six Premier League titles, three La Liga titles, and three Bundesliga titles.

Since departing City, Guardiola has not taken on a new club role. He is currently serving as a global ambassador and advisor for clubs within the City Football Group, a network that includes Manchester City, Girona, Melbourne City, and New York City FC.

The USSF’s reported interest comes at a delicate moment. Manchester United has not officially dismissed Carrick, and no formal contact has been made between the club and U.S. Soccer regarding Pochettino’s contract. In the meantime, Pochettino is expected to remain in charge of the USMNT for their upcoming Concacaf Nations League quarterfinal matches against Haiti.

Should Pochettino’s move to Old Trafford be confirmed, it would leave the federation needing a high-profile replacement ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which the United States co-hosts alongside Canada and Mexico. Guardiola’s global stature and tournament pedigree would make him a transformative appointment, though no formal offer has been reported at this stage.