Mauricio Pochettino was overcome with emotion as he addressed the media for the first time since agreeing to become Manchester United’s new head coach, bringing an emotional end to his tenure with the United States Men National Team (USMNT).
The Argentine broke down in tears while reflecting on his time with the American national team and thanking the players, technical staff and officials of the United States Soccer Federation ahead of his departure for England.
Addressing his impending exit during a press conference at the United States camp, the former Chelsea manager struggled to hold back his emotions as he described leaving the national team as one of the “most difficult decisions” of his managerial career.
“Normally, it’s the opposite. Normally, you cry because you want to stay, but it’s the opposite. We are excited for the step forward, but it’s a moment for commitment because we care and we always will.”
Mauricio Pochettino, USMNT head coach
Pochettino, who was confirmed as Manchester United’s new head coach on Friday, November 13, following the dismissal of Michael Carrick a day earlier, will officially begin his new assignment on November 18.
However, he has two final fixtures with the USMNT against Haiti on November 14 and 17 before completing his departure from international football.
The emotional moment underlined the relationship Pochettino had developed with the American national team since taking charge in September 2024, with his departure coming despite the progress he believes they have made together.
Pochettino Reflects on Time With USMNT
The 54-year-old expressed gratitude to the U.S Soccer Federation, players and technical staff for their support throughout his spell, admitting that the decision to leave a project he believed in had made his departure particularly difficult.
Pochettino revealed that he had not prepared a formal speech for the occasion, choosing instead to speak directly from his heart as he reflected on the collective progress achieved during his time in charge.
He also credited the team for rediscovering its motivation and determination, insisting that the experience had been meaningful for everyone involved.
“The staff and the players, I want to say thank you so much for the last two years. You made me feel really happy sharing an amazing project. It’s difficult now for me to finish.”
Mauricio Pochettino, USMNT head coach
The Argentine further acknowledged the support of the federation, praising the working relationship he had enjoyed with its officials and recognising the professional environment that allowed his project to develop.
He described his departure as a difficult but necessary decision, adding that the ambition to pursue the next stage of his managerial career had ultimately influenced his decision.
Pochettino also acknowledged the disappointment his exit could generate among American supporters, insisting that his affection for the team and the memories created during his time in the United States would remain. “The situation is not ideal, but in life, football moves quickly so we need to move forward to keep that relationship and the memories we shared,” he added.
Final Haiti Fixtures Before Manchester United Move
Despite agreeing to take charge at Old Trafford, Pochettino remains committed to completing his international responsibilities, with the United States scheduled to face Haiti twice during the November international window.
The fixtures on November 14 and 17 will represent his final involvement with the national team before he begins work at Manchester United on November 18. He’ll consequently be in charge when the team travel to play Liverpool at Anfield on November 22.
His immediate task will be to ensure that the emotional circumstances surrounding his departure do not distract the players from their preparations, with the Argentine insisting that the remaining matches deserve the team’s full attention.
He described the players as “amazing” and urged everyone to remain focused on the two encounters, recognising their importance despite the uncertainty surrounding his departure.
Berhalter Hails Pochettino
USMNT midfielder Sebastian Berhalter, meanwhile, praised the foundation Pochettino had established since arriving in September 2024, suggesting that his influence had extended beyond results.
The Middlesbrough midfielder credited the Argentine with instilling a stronger sense of responsibility and national pride within the squad.
“He really instilled that in us, even though he’s an Argentinian coach, he made us even more proud to be American,” Berhalter said.
Fourth Premier League Assignment for Pochettino
Pochettino’s appointment at Manchester United marks a return to English football, where he has previously managed Southampton, Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea.
His arrival at Old Trafford represents his fourth managerial assignment in the Premier League, having built a reputation for developing competitive teams and implementing an energetic style of football.
At Tottenham, he came closest to securing a major trophy in England, guiding the north London club to the 2019 UEFA Champions League final, where they lost 2-0 to Liverpool.
However, despite his achievements and impressive league campaigns, he is yet to win a competitive title in English football.
His subsequent spells at Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea further expanded his managerial experience, although his time at Stamford Bridge ended without the silverware expected from the club’s significant investment.
Now, with Manchester United enduring a difficult start to the season, Pochettino faces another major challenge in restoring the club’s competitiveness and delivering the consistency expected at Old Trafford.
United currently find themselves in the relegation zone with just eight points from their opening 10 league matches, representing their worst start to a top-flight campaign in approximately four decades.
For Pochettino, the move offers another opportunity to establish himself among England’s leading managers and finally secure a major domestic honour.
But before beginning that challenge, the Argentine must complete his final two assignments with the United States, a chapter he leaves behind with visible emotion and gratitude.
READ ALSO: Ghana’s Primary Surplus Hits 1.4% as Spending Tightens
