The wait is over. After weeks of silence, USMNT is reportedly closer to officially announcing the arrival of Mauricio Pochettino. All the American fans will soon proudly call the Argentinian tactician their new manager. As the former Chelsea potentially gears up for his first-ever international journey, a question looms if the Canada clash will see Pochettino make his debut. Initially, it was the September friendly that Mauricio Pochettino was touted to take charge of the American boys. However, some hiccups, specifically regarding his contract situation with his former club mostly delayed his arrival.

One may think that must have been resolved, but that apparently doesn’t seem to be the case. Per journalist Jaime Ojeda’s post on X, Pochettino has yet to resolve his deserved $13 million payday with the Premier League giants. While this makes his debut against Canada a doubt, he will be involved in some capacity. Sources also indicated that the Argentine will work closely with Mikey Varas, heavily contributing to the team’s preparations “from the outside” during that time.

Earlier, ESPN FC host Sebastian Salazar expressed his desire to see the 52-year-old remain involved from behind. While urging the Star and Stripes to lean on the former Tottenham coach, the commentator said, “I hope he’s making every selection around this roster—making the lineups, diagramming the subs for Mikey Varas—I want him to have all the influence. Otherwise, my opinion would be, it’s a wasted window.” Seems like this wish of many is finally coming true; ideally, after facing Canada on September 7, Saturday at Kansas City’s Children’s Mercy Park, USMNT will be facing New Zealand on September 10, Tuesday at TQL Stadium. However, the second match isn’t also a time for him to finally sit in the dugout.

USMNT won’t like to see potential Canada defeat in Mauricio Pochettino’s tab

We reckon if there had been a window of opportunity to give Mauricio Pochettino control of the team, ardent fans wouldn’t have given it a thought even for a second. But speaking about the reality, beyond the legalities, the former PSG manager needs what every successful venture requires: time and patience. While some may argue that time is running out and the USSF has already wasted enough, hear out this idea for a second.

Imagine if US Soccer made the announcement right now—would Pochettino have the time to settle in like any other coach? Absolutely not. Moreover, picture this: if he were to take charge just hours before the September matches against Canada and New Zealand, and the results went south, it would undoubtedly be one of the worst debuts imaginable. Even fans wouldn’t want that; they might accept such a situation with Mikey Varas, but certainly not under Pochettino’s leadership.

The former Southampton boss would undoubtedly want time to familiarize himself with his new environment, choose the right assistant coaches, and implement his vision for the team. For these reasons, it wouldn’t be surprising if Pochettino’s official debut is postponed until the October window. Till then, keep your fingers crossed and hope for the best.