Pochettino Takes the Helm as US Soccer Aims for World Cup Glory

US Soccer's men's national team has hired Mauricio Pochettino as its new head coach, with a mandate to win a knockout-round match for the first time since 2002. Pochettino, known for his achievements at Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea, took the job in September 2024 with a base annualized salary of approximately $6.04 million, making him the highest-paid coach in USMNT history.

Through May 2026, Pochettino has compiled a record of 13 wins, 7 draws, and 2 losses, but the real test lies ahead as the US hosts the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The last time the team advanced past the group stage was in 2002, when they shocked Mexico in the Round of 16 before falling to Germany.

The US Soccer Federation has reportedly proposed an extension to keep Pochettino through the 2030 World Cup, but a final decision will wait until after the home tournament concludes. Crypto sponsors, including Kraken, Chiliz, and Algorand, are increasing their involvement with the program ahead of the 2026 World Cup, possibly paving the way for deeper integrations.