Will the Next USMNT Manager Be American?

Thomas Deschaine (@uskeeper on X and us_keeper on Instagram)

I said after Mauricio Pochettino’s extension that I didn’t expect him to make it through the 2030 cycle as #USMNT manager, whether due to results or another club offering him a deal he couldn’t refuse. However, I never expected things to reach this point so close to the start of the cycle.

In some ways, the timing might not be the worst, provided US Soccer can quickly interview and hire a replacement well before the March FIFA window. That said, I was really starting to buy into Pochettino’s vision and his commitment to building the #USMNT around youth.

Hopefully, US Soccer recognizes the value of having a high-profile manager and pursues another big name like Pep Guardiola, Didier Deschamps or Julian Nagelsmann. My gut, however, tells me they’ll pivot back toward an American coach or an experienced MLS manager like Wilfried Nancy.

Another intriguing option is Marko Mitrović, former U19, U20 and U23 USMNT manager and current New England Revolution coach. He already has experience working with many of the young players in the current player pool.

Here’s a look at some of the most likely American candidates to become the next USMNT manager.

Michael Bradley (39)

I truly believe Michael Bradley will someday manage the USMNT. His soccer intelligence, leadership qualities, and playing experience across Europe and MLS give him both an international perspective and a deep understanding of American soccer culture. However, Bradley likely projects more as a candidate for the 2034 cycle at the earliest and he still needs time to develop at the club level.

B. J. Callaghan (45)

It would be difficult not to include B.J. Callaghan after the positive impression he made as interim USMNT manager. Coming off an MLS-best record and Supporters’ Shield title, Callaghan continues to demonstrate his ability to prepare and get the most out of his teams despite a relatively limited managerial résumé. He earned the trust of the players and fans by delivered strong performances during his time with the national team. If the position opens again, U.S. Soccer would almost certainly explore his interest.

Steve Cherundolo (47)

Steve Cherundolo may be one cycle away from becoming a serious candidate, especially after recently leaving MLS to return to Germany. Still, his experience as both a player and manager at high levels of the game makes him someone U.S. Soccer should strongly consider.

Jim Curtin (47)

If Pochettino can be convinced to leave the #USMNT, perhaps newly appointed Austin FC manager Jim Curtin could also be persuaded to make the move if U.S. Soccer views him as the right fit. His success with the Philadelphia Union, highlighted by winning the 2020 Supporters’ Shield, showcased his ability to build a strong team culture and maximize the talent at his disposal.

Pellegrino Matarazzo (48)

I’m not convinced U.S. Soccer would seriously pursue Pellegrino Matarazzo, but hopefully I’m wrong. His success coaching in Europe has made him one of the most respected American-born managers in the game and a popular choice among many fans for the future of the USMNT.

Brian Schmetzer (63)

With eight trophies to his name, Brian Schmetzer may be one of the strongest and most accomplished domestic candidates available. His biggest achievement came when he led Seattle Sounders FC to the 2022 CONCACAF Champions League title, becoming the first MLS club to win the tournament under its modern format.

Peter Vermes (59)

Former USMNT striker Peter Vermes deserves consideration given his success at Sporting KC, where he won four trophies as a manager. Vermes previously turned down interest from U.S. Soccer, but with him no longer actively coaching at club level, the timing could finally align for a move into the international game.

The Importance of Having a Succession Plan

The next USMNT manager could inherit a player pool filled with established veterans and exciting young talent, but U.S. Soccer’s vision and priorities have shifted frequently between cycles. If Pochettino is indeed leaving, that could send the federation in a different direction with its next hire. 

My hope is that the long-term vision remains consistent with the approach heading into the 2022 World Cup. Given that Pochettino’s contract reportedly included a $10 million buyout clause, you would hope U.S. Soccer had contingency plans and potential replacements in mind. In recent cycles, the federation has appeared less prepared with backup options than it was in the past. How quickly U.S. Soccer moves will be important, but the search cannot drag on indefinitely. A process lasting a few months is reasonable, provided the federation identifies the right candidate well ahead of the next major FIFA window.