What happened: The deal gives Pochettino his first full World Cup cycle after he joined the program in September 2024. His staff will also advise on youth development, coaching education and collaboration with professional leagues.
Why it matters: Continuity follows a 2026 run that included the program's first knockout victory since 2002. It also ends outside-job uncertainty after Pochettino met with AC Milan before the tournament.
By the numbers: The U.S. won its group outright for the third time and beat Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-0 in the Round of 32. It scored in all five matches and reached two goals in four, an 80% multi-goal rate.
What to watch: The 2027 Concacaf Nations League and Gold Cup will provide the first competitive tests of the new cycle.