Guardiola soon back in action: ambitious federation makes him its priority

US Soccer targets Guardiola as Pochettino's successor, with the former Manchester City manager on sabbatical after a decade in charge.

Pep Guardiola is US Soccer's top target to replace Mauricio Pochettino, who is set to join Manchester United. The Catalan manager has been on sabbatical since leaving Manchester City in summer 2024 after a decade on the bench, citing exhaustion and stress-related physical toll.

US Soccer has previously approached Guardiola before the 2022 World Cup and is prepared to offer substantial salary to attract him. The federation believes the timing could work in their favour: Guardiola has previously praised the US national team project as "fascinating" with real potential, and he spent his 2012 sabbatical in New York after leaving Barcelona.

With no FIFA international dates until March 2027, Guardiola could extend his break while considering the role.

However, convincing the 55-year-old will be difficult. He has shown little interest in returning to management immediately and is focused on his recovery. Italy's federation also pursued him before he declined their offer.