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U.S. Soccer CEO JT Batson is unbothered by Mauricio Pochettino's reported meeting with AC Milan regarding their open managerial role, stating that the USMNT head coach remains "very focused" on the upcoming World Cup.
Pochettino is reported to have held talks with Milan's officials shortly before unveiling his 26-man squad for the tournament. The Argentine initially denied the meeting occurred before walking back his denial and reaffirming his dedication to the USMNT.
While World Cup excitement has yet to fully grip the United States, there is confidence that Pochettino's squad could mount a strong run this summer. The U.S. has been placed in a highly competitive Group D alongside Paraguay, Australia, and Türkiye — a group the USMNT could realistically win, but also struggle in given the elevated expectations surrounding them.
The head coach remains their biggest draw, and clubs have been circling Pochettino ever since he took on the national team role. Milan, who parted company with Massimiliano Allegri at the close of the season, are simply the latest to come calling.
Mauricio Pochettino USMNT Contract Extension Remains a Possibility
Pochettino assumed the USMNT role in September 2024 and has recorded 13 wins from his 22 matches in charge. His deal runs out following the World Cup.
While the timing of Pochettino's alleged discussions with Milan is far from convenient, with the tournament kicking off in under two weeks, Batson has downplayed the importance of the meeting, noting that the Argentine has been "transparent about club interest" and leaving the door open for a contract extension.
"Even when we first connected a couple of summers ago, there were plenty of others interested in bringing Mauricio and [his staff] on board," the chief executive told reporters. "He had standing offers from other clubs, and he chose to be here. He's a firm believer in what we're building at U.S. Soccer, he's a firm believer in soccer in America, and he's a firm believer in this men's team.
"Throughout all of this, Mauricio and his team have been incredibly transparent, they've been outstanding partners, and we're, of course, looking forward to the summer," he added.
Two USMNT players, Timothy Weah and Tyler Adams, backed Batson's view, with Weah suggesting that Pochettino's uncertain future "doesn't bother" the squad.
How Mauricio Pochettino Reacted to Milan Meeting Reports
Pochettino found himself in an awkward position with reporters over the Milan situation on Thursday, slowly conceding that a meeting with the Italian club may have occurred after initially dismissing the reports as untrue. He suggested his representatives may have spoken to the Rossoneri on his behalf, while stopping short of fully denying any direct personal contact.
"When and with who?" Pochettino questioned. "If I met someone, what happens? What is going to change? My contract ends in July. If the federation wants to discuss the future with me, it's similar. It's a similar thing."
The 54-year-old maintained that he remains "open" to renewing his deal with U.S. Soccer, and dismissed any suggestion that his commitment to the national team ahead of the World Cup is in question.
"If I don't have commitment, what am I doing here? If I have the possibility to [go to] another club?" he asked rhetorically.
"It is disrespectful. Because I am here. I am here. I am not going to go away tomorrow. If another club came and said, 'We want you, but you have to start tomorrow.' I say, 'Sorry, I committed with the national team.' Whether it's the best club in the world. They can give me all the promises. I am not going to change."