USMNT Players Praise Mauricio Pochettino Amid Manchester United Reports

U.S. men's national team head coach Mauricio Pochettino has not yet formally addressed his squad regarding reports of his impending departure for Manchester United, following the dismissal of Michael Carrick. However, team members are already confronting the prospect of his exit as they prepare for a two-legged Concacaf Nations League quarterfinal series against Haiti.

Speaking to reporters at U.S. Soccer's training facility, midfielder Sebastian Berhalter expressed deep gratitude for the manager who inherited the role from his father, Gregg Berhalter, roughly two years ago. After earning a call-up following strong play with the Vancouver Whitecaps, the younger Berhalter featured in all five matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scoring in the group stage finale against Türkiye. Striker Folarin Balogun, who paced the team with three goals during the World Cup, emphasized that the Argentine coach significantly elevated training intensity and overall tactical mindset.

While acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding potential successors—which includes long-shot speculation involving Pep Guardiola—both players stressed that the tactical foundation established under Pochettino remains firmly intact. Balogun noted that the squad now bears the responsibility to maintain those high standards regardless of who takes charge next.

What to watch next: The U.S. squad takes the pitch for their Concacaf Nations League quarterfinal matchup against Haiti as speculation regarding the coaching staff continues.