The excitement around the USMNT is back. Although the last couple of months have been flat after their stint at the 2024 Copa America, hopes have risen with the expected coming of Mauricio Pochettino. Leading up to the 2026 World Cup, the USA could make this period a game-changer for soccer in the country. And what better way to show a drastic improvement than one of the finds of the Copa America Canada? As they are led by a confident Jesse Marsch, will the USMNT have the former Chelsea coach by their side?

Reports earlier suggested that Pochettino was about to sign his contract today. Hence, while the temporary coach Mikey Varas leads the team, intrigue around the former Chelsea coach’s presence at Children’s Mercy Park in Kansas City still exists.

Pochettino’s US vs. Canada match appearance: A new update

The curiosity among the supporters to see Mauricio Pochettino with the USMNT may persist. But it appears that they may have to wait longer. All reports indicate that the former Argentina international will not be present for today’s match versus the Reds. While both parties were supposed to meet today, that wasn’t scheduled to be in the USA but in Barcelona. Yet, there were hopes to see the manager a few days ago, as earlier reports expected him to be present for the first game. Yet, optimism still exists for his presence in the second friendly against New Zealand.

Meanwhile, a long time passed since the verbal agreement between Mauricio Pochettino and US Soccer. However, his situation with Chelsea was reported to be complex after his contract termination one year before the expiry. The once Ligue 1 winning manager was sacked for causes related to the performance on the field, which speculated him to be eligible for $13 million until he signed for another team.

Later, as the London club denied the news, there were other talks regarding third-party arrangements for his compensation, leading to the delay in the deal. Moreover, the latest update regarding today’s meeting can add doubts about his arrival for the second match on Tuesday.

Pochttino’s deal signing experiences unexpected wait

A day ago, the time seemed to have finally come to declare Mauricio Pochettino as the USMNT head coach. US Soccer officials who were set to travel to the Catalan City to complete the process have reportedly not gone, according to Fox Sports journalist Doug McIntyre. The media person stated that the trip got canceled at the last moment, hinting that there would be a further delay in procedures. Although there is a lot of sanguinity, until the process is done, anything might be possible.

The former Tottenham Hotspur coach was supposed to announce the news through a video if the deal had been completed. Nevertheless, the news claims that there is a possibility to see the announcement in the next 48 hours. Regardless, the current boss, Mikey Varas, is confident about his squad’s ability in this international break. While his strategy is to play with courage, the team will want to prove their worth today against a formidable Canadian side and impress the anticipated coach.