Mauricio Pochettino denied meeting with AC Milan and said his primary focus remains leading the U.S. men’s national soccer team.

These clarifications come as the U.S. prepares for the 2026 World Cup, where coaching stability is critical for the host nation's performance. Rumors of a potential return to club management in Europe had raised questions about the head coach's long-term intentions with the federation.

Pochettino, who began his tenure as head coach in the fall of 2024 [1], addressed the speculation by explaining that his representatives were merely exploring options. He said there was no meeting that would take him away from the national team.

"My commitment is 100 percent to the World Cup," Pochettino said [2].

The coach's representatives had reportedly been in contact with the Italian club, but Pochettino emphasized that these discussions did not constitute a formal meeting or a shift in priority. He said that his current professional obligation is to the U.S. squad.

Kay Murray of ESPN FC said the federation wants to make sure the fans know he is fully focused on the United States heading into the tournament [3]. The reassurance follows a period of transition for the team since Pochettino took over the role [1].

While the coach has dismissed the current rumors, his contractual status remains a point of interest for the sporting world. Pochettino will be out of contract after the World Cup [1], a timeline that naturally invites speculation about his next career move once the tournament concludes.

For now, the coaching staff continues to prepare the roster for the high-pressure environment of hosting the global event. Pochettino said the focus remains on the pitch and the preparation of the players for the upcoming competition [2].

“"My commitment is 100 percent to the World Cup."”

The denial of a formal meeting with AC Milan serves to stabilize the USMNT's leadership image ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Because Pochettino's contract ends following the tournament, any perceived openness to club roles creates a narrative of a 'lame duck' tenure. By explicitly reaffirming his commitment, Pochettino is attempting to prevent distractions within the locker room and among the fan base during a critical preparation phase.