Mauricio Pochettino, current head coach of the U.S. men’s national team (USMNT), has firmly ruled out a return to Tottenham Hotspur, despite widespread speculation about the club’s managerial vacancy following the departure of Ange Postecoglou.
Pochettino’s Clear Message
Speaking after the USMNT’s 2‑1 friendly loss to Turkey on June 7, 2025, Pochettino stated:
“Today, it’s not realistic… I am where I am, it’s where we are.”
He noted that every time the Spurs position becomes available, his name resurfaces among “100 coaches on the list,” but emphasised that at present, his focus is firmly on the U.S. job.
Why the Speculation?
Tottenham’s shock decision to sack Ange Postecoglou on June 6, only two weeks after delivering the Europa League title—Spurs’ first major trophy in 17 years—triggered a management scramble. Despite the emotional high of European success, Spurs endured a disastrous Premier League campaign, finishing 17th, just above relegation, with 22 league defeats.
Pochettino’s prior tenure from 2014–2019 reinforced his candidacy; he led Tottenham to the 2019 Champions League final and achieved four straight top-four Premier League finishes, alongside reenergising the club’s playing identity.
The U.S. Project Takes Priority
After leaving Chelsea in May 2024, Pochettino took charge of the USMNT in September 2024 under a two-year contract, aiming to guide the national side through the build-up to the 2026 World Cup, which the U.S. is co-hosting with Canada and Mexico.
Despite a rocky run—three consecutive losses, including defeats to Panama, Canada, and Turkey—Pochettino stressed that reshaping the USMNT with “commitment and attitude” remains his priority.
Spurs Shortlist: Facing Closely Behind
With Pochettino out of contention, Tottenham have reportedly turned their attention to a shortlist that includes Brentford’s Thomas Frank, Fulham’s Marco Silva, and Eintracht Frankfurt’s Oliver Glasner, the latter notable for their Europa League success—making him a compelling, immediate option.
What’s Next for Tottenham?
- Urgent recruitment need
Spurs must quickly appoint a successor to Postecoglou, ensuring momentum from European success isn’t lost—especially as pre-season and Champions League commitments loom. - Club dynamics
With internal disruptions reported after hiring Postecoglou and the domestic downturn, the board will likely prioritise stability and cultural alignment when considering candidates like Frank or Silva, who understand the North London ecosystem.
Pochettino’s Lasting Legacy
Despite ruling out a return, Pochettino left Tottenham in a significantly elevated state back in 2019. His philosophy emphasised youth development, pressing football, and mental resilience—elements still evident in the club’s DNA today.
Yet he made it clear that “this moment” is about consolidating the USMNT’s foundation ahead of 2026, not nostalgia-driven speculation.
Bottom Line
- Pochettino says returning to Spurs is “not realistic” given his commitment to the USMNT.
- Tottenham faces a critical managerial decision after sacking Postecoglou, with candidates like Frank, Silva, and Glasner rising to the top.
- USMNT focus remains on team building under Pochettino, ahead of home‑grown World Cup excitement in 2026.
Spurs fans may still dream of a Pochettino return someday—but for now, the question is closed.
