Former Tottenham and Chelsea head coach Mauricio Pochettino is a leading contender for the U.S. men's national team coaching role, as per sources close to the ongoing search. The U.S. Soccer federation is reportedly in discussions with Pochettino's camp, although they have yet to confirm any specific candidates for the job.

Bringing Pochettino on board would mark a significant appointment for U.S. Soccer, addressing the eagerness within the fanbase for a high-profile manager. Despite his lack of experience at the national team level, Pochettino boasts a successful track record in club management, achieving notable accomplishments with Southampton, Tottenham, Paris Saint-Germain, and most recently, Chelsea.

Matt Crocker, the sporting director of U.S. Soccer, and Pochettino have a prior connection from their time at Southampton, further fueling speculation around Pochettino's candidacy for the position. While no official announcement has been made, there is a possibility for an imminent decision by U.S. Soccer ahead of the September international window.

The U.S. men's national team has been without a head coach since parting ways with Gregg Berhalter post-Copa América this summer. The team's recent stint in the Copa América ended disappointingly with a group-stage exit, prompting the need for a new direction under a seasoned manager like Pochettino.

Pochettino's potential arrival would signal a watershed moment for U.S. Soccer, echoing the stature of past coaches like Jurgen Klinsmann. With a reputation for his tactical acumen and attacking philosophy, Pochettino is poised to reinvigorate the national team setup and elevate its performance on the international stage.

As discussions progress, U.S. Soccer remains committed to securing a top-tier coach, underscoring their determination to invest in the program's long-term success across global competitions.

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*(Top photo: Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images)*