Pochettino opens door to Guardiola

Pochettino's expected move to Manchester United would leave the USMNT manager role vacant, with the US federation reportedly eyeing Pep Guardiola as a primary target.

Mauricio Pochettino's near-certain departure to Manchester United to replace Michael Carrick will leave the United States national team manager position open. According to MLS expert Tom Bogert, the US Football Federation has identified Pep Guardiola as its primary target for the role, though officials are aware that securing him will be difficult.

Guardiola has been without a club since leaving Manchester City in May after a decade in charge. He rejected an offer from the Italian Football Federation in July, preferring to take a sabbatical.

The Manchester City manager has previously expressed interest in managing a national team and was approached by the Brazilian Football Confederation after the 2022 World Cup and by the English Football Association following Euro 2024, but declined both opportunities.

It remains to be seen whether Guardiola will pursue the USMNT position or continue his break from football.