Pochettino Dismisses Real Madrid Links Amid USMNT Focus
USMNT manager Mauricio Pochettino has firmly denied any recent contact with Real Madrid, despite ongoing speculation regarding his potential future with the club. Following Zinedine Zidane's departure in 2021, Pochettino emerged as a candidate for the position and continues to be mentioned as a possible choice for the upcoming summer. As he prepares to lead the United States into the 2026 World Cup, Pochettino's contract is set to expire post-tournament, which has intensified discussions surrounding his coaching future. He is among several notable names linked to the Real Madrid role, including Unai Emery and Jurgen Klopp. During a press conference on March 31, 2026, Pochettino addressed the rumors: He stated, "No, at the moment, no, I think we are very, very focused. I’m fully focused here in the World Cup." Pochettino emphasized his commitment to the national team, asserting that discussions about his future are premature, saying, "I think it’s not a point to talk about the future at the moment." He acknowledged the presence of rumors but maintained that the priority lies in concentrating on the World Cup and improving the team. Pochettino concluded by expressing openness to future opportunities, indicating that both he and the federation must be content with any potential changes. As speculation swirls, his focus remains firmly on leading the USMNT in the prestigious tournament.
Source: Football España - 2026-03-31