Christian Pulisic has welcomed growing speculation linking Mauricio Pochettino to the United States men’s national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup in North America.
Last week, it was reported that Pochettino and the United States Soccer Federation were in talks over a deal for the former Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain and Tottenham manager to become head coach of the men’s national team.
Gregg Berhalter has been fired as head coach of the national team following the United States’ elimination in the group stage of this summer’s Copa America.
“I think it’s good news,” Pulisic, 25, told CBS before scoring in AC Milan’s 2-1 loss to Parma on Saturday.
“I think it’s time for a change, it’s time for us to take another step and really improve as a team and, looking ahead to this World Cup, we need to find some good results and build some momentum towards that.”
Christian Pulisic has backed the US men’s national team’s bid for Mauricio Pochettino
According ESPNPochettino’s contract situation with his former club Chelsea remains unresolved before the U.S. Soccer Federation can confirm his signing.
The Premier League club owes the Argentine manager an undisclosed amount of money following his departure at the end of last season.
Former U.S. Under-20 coach Mikey Varas will be in charge of upcoming friendlies in September, regardless of whether Pochettino is appointed before then, according to sources. ESPN.
The United States will first host Canada in Kansas City on Sept. 7 and New Zealand in Cincinnati three days later as Pochettino familiarizes himself with the U.S. Soccer Federation and its structure, including local players and those playing overseas.
Former U.S. Under-20 coach Mikey Varas will be in charge of the U.S. national team for its September games
Earlier this week, Pochettino’s possible arrival was encouraged by US and PSV full-back Sergino Dest.
“Yes, it is (exciting),” Dest said. ESPN “Obviously, he has been a coach at big clubs and he is a very well-known coach. It will be a good experience to train with him,” he said.
“We’ll see and I hope it helps us all… to get a great result in the World Cup, you know? Because we are the home country.”
Pulisic’s AC Milan and US national teammate, midfielder Yunus Musah, has also backed the potential signing.