The roof was raised by US Soccer fans when the battle for equal pay was won a couple of years ago. It was a historic day in American history as a deal was struck to ensure both men’s and women’s national teams received similar paychecks. No wonder it led to Emma Hayes securing a historic $1.6 million annual contract as USWNT coach, matching what Gregg Berhalter used to earn. So with this equation, Mauricio Pochettino is also pocketing the same amount, isn’t he?

Well, as much as it is a proud moment to see Hayes bagging a record contract in the women’s game due to the equal pay deal, the recently hired USMNT boss is earning much more than that. Precisely, $6 million according to several reports. But then shouldn’t the USSF renegotiate Hayes’ deal? Well, JT Batson thinks otherwise and has an explanation for the same. “We don’t have very many employees across the company who are paid exactly the same contract,” began the US Soccer CEO, as compiled by CNN.

“Because, of course, they’re on different contract terms,” explained Batson. So, while the conditions during the negotiations with either Hayes or Poch were different, does that make their paychecks unique as well? Seemingly, Batson says so; then again, the USSF chief remains extra motivated about the women’s program, expressing his confidence in Hayes to bring the necessary change within the team.

“But Emma is someone that we’re incredibly excited about, and we’re very proud of the work that she’s done, and we’re very proud of the work that we’re doing going forward,” added Batson about the former Chelsea boss, who took the first step of transforming the USWNT by guiding them to the gold medal in the 2024 Paris Olympics. Batson had more to add about the whole US Soccer Federation, who are working meticulously in order to achieve the same goals: “We are with all of our employees.”

The USSF CEO continued, “We’re constantly looking to make sure that they’re compensated in the way that sets them up for success, and make sure that we can continue to achieve the big things that we’re trying to achieve as an organization.” To be fair, this exactly doesn’t answer the question of why there is still a pay disparity between Pochettino and Hayes. Nevertheless, the subtle answer works too. Also, so what the USMNT manager is earning more? Though it’s not a competition, the end goal actually remains the same.

Divided by pay, united by one goal: Emma Hayes and Mauricio Pochettino’s motto working for US Soccer

Money is the least of the motivations for either Mauricio Pochettino or Emma Hayes in their work for US Soccer—both coaches are well aware of their duty to fulfill during their tenure as they strive to live up to the American dream. Speaking of Hayes, she has already begun her journey with the American ladies, winning the gold medal at the recent Paris Olympics. Now, she prepares them for the next World Cup and another Olympics.

As for Pochettino, he doesn’t have much time left, with just a year until the American boys gear up to host the World Cup. While winning might be uncertain, we certainly hope to see a strong and respectable finish from the Stars and Stripes. Simultaneously, both foreign managers are also expected to work for US Soccer’s youth programs, not solely but at least acting in advisory roles, in order to secure the future of the nation.

Rest assured, it all looks set for either of the men’s and women’s sides. Now, let’s see how everything pans out!