
Pochettino’s World Cup Focus Amid AC Milan Rumors
With the World Cup approaching, U.S. Soccer’s chief executive reassures fans that Mauricio Pochettino’s priority is the tournament, despite recent overtures from AC Milan.
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With the World Cup approaching, U.S. Soccer’s chief executive reassures fans that Mauricio Pochettino’s priority is the tournament, despite recent overtures from AC Milan.

U.S. Soccer chief executive JT Batson downplays rumors of Mauricio Pochettino’s meeting with AC Milan, stressing the coach’s unwavering commitment to the national team ahead of the World Cup.

A recent meeting between Mauricio Pochettino and AC Milan has reignited speculation about the coach’s club ambitions, even as his contract with U.S. Soccer is set to expire after the World Cup.

Mauricio Pochettino, the head coach of the United States men’s national team, has recently been linked with a move to AC Milan, but he remains open to continuing his work with the U.S. side after the upcoming World Cup. During a dinner in New York, Pochettino sat down with U.S. Soccer Federation CEO JT Batson to explore the terms of a possible extension that would keep him in charge through the tournament. He outlined a starting lineup for the opener against Paraguay and expressed confidence in Christian Pulisic ending a goal drought, while sporting director Matt Crocker’s exit adds uncertainty to the federation’s leadership plans.

Amid rumors linking Mauricio Pochettino with AC Milan, U.S. Soccer’s leadership emphasizes continuity and player support, while Tim Ream steps forward as a potential captain.

The state‑of‑the‑art facility south of Atlanta offers 19 fields, modern amenities and a unified headquarters for U.S. Soccer, providing a strategic boost for players and coaches ahead of the tournament.

Reports of Pochettino’s interview with AC Milan surface as the U.S. men’s national team prepares for its World Cup opener against Paraguay in Los Angeles.

U.S. Soccer chief executive JT Batson confirmed that Mauricio Pochettino is fully concentrated on the 2026 World Cup and the long‑term health of U.S. Soccer, even as the coach held recent discussions with AC Milan.

Rumors link Mauricio Pochettino with AC Milan’s vacant managerial role, while U.S. Soccer confirms his commitment and the federation’s financial backing for future decisions.

Mauricio Pochettino, appointed in September 2024, discusses his vision for the U.S. Men’s National Team as the 2026 World Cup approaches, noting a new training facility in Atlanta and the possible return of the Copa América in 2028.