US Soccer has hit two strikes in a single shot. After struggling to find an appropriate manager for the USMNT, the federation has hired Mauricio Pochettino in an exciting move. With the time closing in on the 2026 World Cup, Pochettino is already showing signs of an ideal person for the role. But only a handful of people already know that they have USWNT coach Emma Hayes to thank for her role in bringing the Argentine to the USA. Nevertheless, this was now acknowledged by US Soccer CEO JT Batson.

Speaking to former USMNT star Taylor Twellman, Batson claimed that the Englishwoman’s rapport with Pochettino fueled his arrival. Hinting that it helped the men’s team coach get motivated for the role, he further said, “I will say this. No exaggeration, gameday in France during the Olympics, at the pre-game meal, running to get some coffee or something, and Emma calls me and says ‘So where do we stand on getting this coach done?'”

Eager to understand the progress, Hayes wanted the deal to be signed and delivered. He continued, “Like ‘What are we doing? Let’s go come on. She felt like a salesman she was like ‘Hey, let’s close this deal,” praising her concern and motivation.

After recent events like the 2024 Copa America debacle and the sacking of Greg Berhalter, finding the right guide for the USMNT seemed like a conundrum. US Soccer even tried to get Jurgen Klopp out of his sabbatical because of mental health issues, but wasn’t successful. Even American coach Jesse Marsch denied his interest in the role of leaving the unit in the doldrums. However, acquiring Hayes from Chelsea was the trick for the USSF to get their man from Argentina!

Both Mauricio Pochettino and Hayes are reported to be connected since the former Argentina international’s spell at Stamford Bridge. Hence, both have a lot of mutual respect as Hayes backed him for the USA role. While they exchanged their lessons during that time, it was recently claimed that Hayes appreciated the manager for a longer time.

Emma Hayes’ admiration for Mauricio Pochettino exists before his Chelsea Spell

Her acknowledgment about keeping Mauricio Pochettino’s call on hold for Sir Alex Ferguson revealed the connection that she had with fellow soccer coaches in England. Surprisingly, according to the famous soccer journalist Guillem Balagué, Hayes is a diehard Tottenham fan and followed Pochettino’s spell keenly during his time as the club’s manager. In addition, it was he who introduced the two coaches to each other claimed the journalist recently to CBS Sports Golazo America.

Hayes was the first person excited to see him in the States. She stated that she ‘cannot wait to work’ with him and claimed that this was an ‘exciting time for U.S. Soccer.’ Moreover, looks like Pochettino has already grown in confidence. The new coach recently revealed that the time was enough for his team to make an impact in the 2026 World Cup without making excuses.

While the motivation from Hayes and Co. seems to be a certainty, can Pochettino deliver the results like her? Give us your take in the comments below.