According to English media reports, the US Men's National Team, managed by Pochettino, is preparing for the Round of 16 match at the FIFA World Cup against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Santa Clara, California, on Thursday morning (CEST). However, even before this crucial knockout stage, US Soccer has already put a contract extension offer on the table.

The 54-year-old Argentine manager took over the USMNT in September 2024, with his initial contract set to expire at the end of this FIFA World Cup. English media understands that US Soccer's contract extension offer is for four years, which would not only see him lead the team through to the 2030 FIFA World Cup but also potentially coach them at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. US Soccer declined to comment when approached by English media.

Additionally, discussions regarding a possible return of the Copa América to the United States in 2028 are underway, meaning the USMNT would participate again. According to The Athletic, the initial extension offer was made before the tournament began, but all parties chose to wait until the USMNT's FIFA World Cup journey ended before making a final decision.

However, US Soccer believes that expressing its commitment early is the right approach. Earlier, there was speculation that Pochettino might return to club football; it was reported that he held talks with AC Milan after they sacked Massimiliano Allegri, but the Serie A giants ultimately chose former Manchester United manager Rúben Amorim.

Additionally, the sudden departure of technical director Matt Crocker in April to take a position in Saudi Arabia—Pochettino previously worked with Crocker at Southampton and later managed the USMNT with him—also made his departure from US Soccer seem more likely.

It has long been believed that Pochettino wants to return to managing in the Premier League. He previously managed Tottenham and Chelsea, leading Tottenham to the historic Champions League final in 2019. However, in recent months, he has indicated that he is willing to extend his tenure with the national team; in his view, the players have performed well, and the team made a strong 2-1 start in the group stage.

Pochettino told USA Today on June 23: "Right now we are focused on the FIFA World Cup. After that, if we want to continue, there will be months, days, or weeks to talk. Because the next FIFA World Cup is in four years."

As one of the host nations for this tournament, the US team finished first in Group D and advanced to the knockout stage after two impressive performances against Paraguay and Australia. US Soccer was impressed by this team's performance exceeding expectations. Pochettino also acknowledged that the overwhelming fan support at the Los Angeles stadium when the team beat Paraguay 4-1 in their opening match greatly influenced him.

Pochettino said, "I didn't recognize it. The atmosphere was completely different, the energy was completely different. The interaction between the fans and us was incredible."

Pochettino added, "For me, the most important legacy is the connection between the national team and the fans. Of course, we want to win. But that is the legacy we need to leave behind... Why not be part of it?"

For Pochettino, the dream of one day returning to the Premier League may not be over, merely postponed.

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