Pochettino Eyes Return to Europe After the World Cup
The United States Men’s National Team has officially unveiled its 26-man squad for the FIFA World Cup, and alongside the announcement, speculation surrounding the future of Mauricio Pochettino has already begun. The Argentine manager is under pressure to deliver a strong tournament with the American side, especially considering the expectations that come with being one of the host nations. However, all signs point toward a possible return to Europe once the competition concludes.
AC Milan Emerges as a Potential Destination
According to American journalist Tom Bogert, Pochettino has already held talks with AC Milan about becoming the replacement for Massimiliano Allegri, who recently departed the Rossoneri after a disappointing campaign.
The Argentine coach’s contract with the United States expires this summer, and although there is still a possibility of revisiting the agreement after the World Cup, the overall feeling surrounding the project has not been entirely positive. For months, reports have suggested internal doubts about the direction of the national team, while Pochettino himself is reportedly considering a return to European football after the tournament.
The pressure on the former Tottenham Hotspur, Paris Saint-Germain, and Chelsea manager is enormous. Pochettino is one of the highest-paid coaches at the World Cup, and expectations for the United States are sky-high, particularly with the tournament being played on home soil.
A Difficult Group Stage Awaits the United States
The group drawn for the American side is far from easy. They will open the tournament against Paraguay, a historically difficult and highly competitive opponent. The second match will come against Australia, whose physical and energetic style has troubled many teams in recent years. The group stage will conclude against Turkey, a national team many analysts believe could become one of the surprise packages of the tournament.
In addition, Pochettino has not escaped criticism over recent months. The performances of the United States have raised major concerns, especially following defeats in warm-up matches and the team’s elimination from the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup. The lack of trophies and the inconsistency in performances have placed the Argentine coach under significant pressure ahead of the World Cup.
A Defining Moment for Pochettino
That is why interest from Milan could represent a lifeline for the Argentine manager. The historic Italian club is looking to begin a new era and believes Pochettino could be the ideal figure to restore stability and competitiveness to the squad.
For now, the former PSG and Chelsea boss faces a massive challenge: handling the pressure of a home World Cup while proving he still belongs among football’s elite managers.
