United States Men's National Team Undergoes Coaching Makeover with Mauricio Pochettino's Trusted Staff
ICARO Media Group
**Mauricio Pochettino Begins USMNT Tenure with Familiar Coaching Team**
Mauricio Pochettino officially began his role as head coach of the United States Men's National Team on Monday, introducing several trusted members of his coaching staff on his first day on the field. Pochettino, who previously managed top clubs such as Espanyol, Southampton, Tottenham, Paris Saint-Germain, and Chelsea, has brought along his experienced team to the national level.
Among the new appointments, Jesús Pérez has taken on the role of first assistant coach, with Miguel "Miki" D'Agostino joining as assistant coach. Antonio "Toni" Jiménez will serve as the goalkeepers coach, while Sebastiano Pochettino, the head coach’s son, has assumed the role of sports scientist. This dedicated team of coaches has collaborated with Pochettino through various successful stints in European football.
These changes come after the United States Soccer Federation (USSF) hired Pochettino last month with a contract extending through the 2026 World Cup. During his introductory news conference, Pochettino emphasized the importance of retaining a familiar and cohesive coaching group, a plan now fully realized with these recent appointments.
The staffing changes include the departure of Vincent Cavin, who was hired as an assistant coach under former head coach Gregg Berhalter in December 2023. Meanwhile, Gianni Vio, who was brought onto the team by Berhalter as a set piece coach, remains with the squad under the new regime.
Pochettino's tenure begins with immediate action as the U.S. team commenced training on Monday. Upcoming friendly matches are on the horizon, with the team set to face Panama on Saturday in Austin, Texas, followed by a clash against Mexico three days later in Guadalajara. These matches will be the first test for Pochettino's revamped coaching lineup.
The U.S. Men's National Team is looking to rebound after a disappointing first-round elimination at the Copa América, which led to Berhalter’s dismissal in July. Pochettino’s arrival brings renewed hope and expectations as the team charts its course towards the 2026 World Cup.