Rumours have been circulating that United States national team coach Mauricio Pochettino is being linked with a move to AC Milan.
The speculation emerged after the Serie A giants began searching for a new manager following their split with Massimiliano Allegri.
In response to these reports, Pochettino took action.
He held a meeting with his assistant Jesus Perez, U.S. Soccer Federation CEO JT Batson, and COO Dan Helfrich.
During the meeting, Pochettino discussed the long-term development of football in the United States.
Reports suggest that Pochettino and Batson talked not only about short-term goals but also about the 2028 Olympics, youth team development, coach education, and several other initiatives aimed at strengthening American football.
This situation indicates that the Argentine coach has a long-term project in the United States and is unlikely to leave for AC Milan.
Nevertheless, according to Goal, speculation about Pochettino’s potential move to AC Milan continues to grow, with reports claiming that discussions have already taken place.
It is reported that Pochettino and representatives of the Rossoneri met last week, though the coach did not deny that such a meeting occurred.
However, the former PSG and Tottenham Hotspur manager clarified that the rumours linking him with AC Milan would not affect the US national team’s preparations for the 2026 World Cup.
“The transparency we’ve shown is our commitment to the national team until the World Cup, until the World Cup is over,” he said.
“Over the past two years, we’ve received many offers, but we’ve always made it clear that we will complete our contract, which ends in July after the World Cup.”
“Of course, we’ve been approached. I won’t lie to you. Yes, I’ve met with people from different clubs, but those were normal conversations because we have friends in the football world.”
“We have friends everywhere, and my representatives are working to explore the best possible options for the future. That’s completely normal,” added Pochettino.
The coach also emphasised that it is common for managers to meet with clubs or officials even while under contract.
Pochettino reaffirmed his full commitment to guiding the US national team through the 2026 World Cup campaign.
“It’s normal for all my colleagues. There are many examples of people under contract with different clubs who still meet and talk to others,” he explained.
“If I wasn’t committed, then what am I doing here? I’m here right now. I’m here, and I’m not leaving tomorrow,” Pochettino concluded.
