Pochettino in talks with AC Milan after Allegri’s exit
United States men’s national team boss Mauricio Pochettino has entered preliminary discussions with AC Milan regarding their vacant managerial position following the club’s departure from Massimiliano Allegri, reports BritPanorama.
The 54-year-old Argentine continues to lead the national team as they prepare for the upcoming World Cup, which is set to take place across the US, Canada, and Mexico this summer.
Pochettino’s contract with the national team concludes after the tournament, opening the possibility for a return to club management. His last club role was with Chelsea during the 2023-24 season, where he achieved a sixth-place finish in the Premier League and reached the League Cup final.
Previously, he spent 18 months at Paris Saint-Germain, securing the Ligue 1 title and the French Cup. His tenure at Tottenham Hotspur, lasting five and a half years, was distinguished by a run to the 2019 Champions League final, where they faced Liverpool.
Milan’s decision to dismiss Allegri comes after a season deemed a failure by the club’s management, culminating in their failure to qualify for the Champions League. The team fell from third to fifth place in the Serie A standings, with a pivotal 2-1 loss at home to Cagliari sealing their fate on the final matchday.
Despite the disappointing outcome, AC Milan secured a berth in the Europa League for the next season, providing some solace after a challenging campaign. The club’s management expressed significant dissatisfaction with the season’s performance.
As the USMNT gears up for the World Cup, Pochettino’s squad announcement has sparked considerable debate among fans, particularly regarding two contentious omissions. Notably, Real Salt Lake’s Diego Luna, who has performed well in recent competitions, was not selected.
Meanwhile, Pochettino has opted for Borussia Monchengladbach midfielder Gio Reyna despite his struggles in the European game. The squad features a notably light midfield setup, with only four options available, including Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie.
As anticipation builds for what awaits at the World Cup, Pochettino’s decisions will undoubtedly be scrutinised, illustrating the often turbulent relationship between performance and public expectation. Responding to pressure, his management journey will face a pivotal moment in the upcoming tournament.
