Mauricio Pochettino, the United States men's national team boss, has entered talks with Serie A heavyweight AC Milan about the club’s vacant head‑coach role, sources tell ESPN. The Argentine‑born manager’s USMNT contract runs to the end of the 2026 World Cup, and he is currently overseeing a training camp near Atlanta. The talk arrives as the U.S. finalizes its World Cup squad, reflecting his bold choices.

US Soccer chief JT Batson praised Pochettino’s transparency, noting the coach has fielded offers from clubs across Europe while remaining committed to America’s project. Milan, fresh from a season that missed the Champions League and a wholesale staff purge, plans a youth‑focused rebuild that aligns with Pochettino’s philosophy and a proven track record. The manager arrives with a 13-7-2 record since September 2024.

Milan’s shortlist also features Napoli’s Antonio Conte, Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola and Austria coach Ralf Rangnick, underscoring the club’s urgency to replace Massimiliano Allegri. Should Pochettino accept, the USMNT will need an interim solution before the World Cup group matches against Paraguay, Australia and Türkiye. The saga places the U.S. federation’s succession plan under immediate scrutiny and could reshape Milan’s tactical identity.