Overview
- The U.S. Men’s National Team lost 4-1 to Belgium in the Round of 16, a result that ended the host nation's run and triggered sharp criticism of coaching and performance.
- Fox Sports analyst Alexi Lalas publicly urged that Pochettino not be rehired, saying “You had one job, and you blew it,” and called the tournament showing an “abject failure.”
- U.S. Soccer issued a statement expressing “a great deal of respect and gratitude” for Pochettino and said it will continue discussing a possible contract extension with him.
- Pochettino, whose two-year deal expires this summer, said he will rest before formal talks and indicated discussions with the federation could begin in the coming weeks if U.S. Soccer wishes to proceed.
- Reports say an internal inquiry into the team’s performance is developing and media outlets have speculated Pochettino could face club interest, a mix that will shape the federation’s decision and the coach’s next steps.