Pochettino era of US soccer begins vs Panama, with eyes on 2026 World Cup

A new era for United States soccer is set to begin, led by an Argentine coach expected to deliver big results at the 2026 World Cup on American soil.

Former Tottenham and Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino makes his U.S. debut in a pair of friendlies, leading the team against Panama on Saturday night in Austin and three days later against Mexico in Guadalajara.

Pochettino was not around for the first 26 matches of the World Cup cycle while Gregg Berhalter and three interim coaches were in charge. These games are in the first of eight international windows Pochettino will have to evaluate players and develop tactics before the team reports ahead of the 2026 tournament.

Pochettino suggested patience is in order. The coach, his staff and players have spent this week not just training but introducing themselves.

Success will be measured by how well the staff and players get to know each other, being organized and sending a clear message from the staff to the players of expectations.