Speculation over Pep Guardiola’s next move intensified Tuesday, with reports stating negotiations for him to become the next head coach of the US men’s national team are set to begin in the coming days.
TalkSport reported the talks between the 55-year-old and US Soccer officials are scheduled for next week.
The American federation has been searching for a successor to Mauricio Pochettino, who was appointed manager of Manchester United earlier this week.
Guardiola has emerged as a leading candidate for the top job, described by sources as the preferred choice of US Soccer boss JT Batson and vice president Oguchi Onyewu. Women’s national team coach Emma Hayes is also understood to be involved in the search process for the men’s team.
This potential move would change Guardiola's career trajectory, as he has not managed a national team before. The Spanish manager ended a ten-year tenure with Manchester City this past summer, a period during which he won six English championships and the Champions League in 2023.
Guardiola’s name entered the conversation shortly after Pochettino’s departure was confirmed. The timing is notable, as the coach had previously announced plans to take a sabbatical following his departure from Manchester City.
“Eine der schwersten Entscheidungen …“: Neuer United-Trainer bricht in Tränen aus, Pochettino was quoted as saying during his emotional unveiling at Manchester United, where he was seen breaking down in tears.””
The nature of Guardiola’s sabbatical has been a subject of discussion. While he confirmed his intention to take a break, he did not specify its duration. If he ends his four-month hiatus to take the US role, his readiness for such a demanding position will be tested.
If appointed, Guardiola would inherit a national team with a growing profile but also significant challenges.
The job represents a new frontier for Guardiola. He is celebrated for his success at club level, particularly with Barcelona and Manchester City, but managing a national team presents a different set of challenges, from managing player form and fitness to integrating players from various leagues into a cohesive system.
Guardiola is not the only high-profile candidate being considered by US Soccer. Another Spanish manager, Roberto Martínez, is also reportedly under consideration. Martínez, 53, most recently led the Portuguese national team before stepping down following their elimination in the round of 16.
Prior to his role with Portugal, Martínez had a stint with the Belgian national team from 2016 to 2022. He also has experience managing in the Premier League, having coached Everton, Wigan, and Swansea.
The coming week will be decisive. According to TalkSport, the initial round of talks between Guardiola and US Soccer officials is the next concrete step in a process that could reshape the future of the American men’s team. The outcome of these negotiations will determine whether one of the world’s most sought-after coaches will take charge of the program as it heads into a new cycle.
