USMNT coaching candidates: Could Pep Guardiola potentially replace Mauricio Pochettino?

U.S. Soccer explores potential USMNT replacements for Pochettino, with Pep Guardiola reportedly the top target alongside MLS-based candidates.

With Mauricio Pochettino expected to join Manchester United, U.S. Soccer faces a decision on the USMNT head coach position. The federation must choose between another high-profile international hire or a candidate with deeper ties to American soccer.

Potential candidates include B.J.

Callaghan, who led Nashville SC to an MLS-record 77 points and won the 2023 Concacaf Nations League with the USMNT; Frédéric Antonetti, the French manager with a track record of success across multiple leagues; Steve Cherundolo, currently overseeing the U-23s and originally planned as Pochettino's successor; and Pep Guardiola, reportedly U.S. Soccer's top target according to The Athletic.

Guardiola, the former Manchester City, Bayern Munich and Germany manager, is expected to eventually return to management.

U.S. Soccer previously approached Jurgen Klopp before hiring Pochettino, and Klopp is now managing Germany. The federation must balance the appeal of securing a world-class manager with the potential benefits of hiring someone invested in American soccer's long-term development ahead of the 2030 World Cup.