Mauricio Pochettino explains surprise decision to take US job after Chelsea departure

Mauricio Pochettino has been officially announced as the new head coach of the United States.

The former Tottenham, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain manager’s appointment to the United States men’s national team was widely expected and he has signed a contract to lead them to the 2026 World Cup, which they will co-host with Mexico and Canada.

He told the U.S. Soccer Federation website: “The decision to join U.S. Soccer wasn’t just about soccer for me; it’s about the journey this team and this country are on.

“The energy, the passion and the hunger to accomplish something truly historic here is what inspired me. The opportunity to lead the U.S. Men’s National Team, in front of fans as passionate as the players, is something I couldn’t pass up.

“I see a group of players full of talent and potential, and together we will build something special that the whole nation can be proud of.”

Pochettino, 52, left Chelsea this summer after just one season in charge.

He previously led Spurs to the 2019 Champions League final, where they lost 2-0 to Liverpool, and won Ligue 1 and the Coupe de France during his 18 months at PSG.

US Soccer Sporting Director Matt Crocker said: “Mauricio is a serial winner with a deep passion for player development and a proven ability to build cohesive, competitive teams.

“His track record speaks for itself and I am confident he is the right choice to harness the immense potential of our talented team.”

Additional reporting by PA