Pep Guardiola eyed for new manager’s job in dramatic swoop

US Soccer want Pep Guardiola to replace Mauricio Pochettino as the men’s national team head coach, talkSPORT understands. Pochettino looks set to leave for Premier League giants Manchester United having agreed a deal in principle to replace Michael Carrick. Those overseeing the managerial change in the United States set-up want to hire Guardiola in what would be a sensational appointment. The Spaniard has been out of management since the summer when he left Manchester City after a decade at the club. Guardiola won six Premier League titles and the Champions League, and is regarded as one of the best managers in history. He also lifted three consecutive league trophies with Barcelona and Bayern Munich. Joining the USMNT would present a fresh challenge as Guardiola has never managed at international level. However, it won’t be as straightforward for the powers that be as he hinted before his City exit that he would take a break from football. Could Guardiola join USMNT? “After my contract with City, I’m going to stop. I’m sure,” he said in May 2025. “I don’t know if I’m going to retire, but I’m going to take a break. How I want to be remembered, I don’t know.” In a separate interview, he reiterated: “So I’m not retiring, but I will take a break, for sure.” “When I finish here, I will take a break. I need to make a stop, that’s all,” Guardiola added. Despite leaving the club, Guardiola has maintained support for City in recent months. He sent an emotional message to fans after City were found guilty on all charges of Premier League financial breaches in September. “Let me be clear: we will get through this together. I love you all,” the 55-year-old said. Guardiola then attended their Champions League league phase clash at home to holders Paris Saint-Germain last month. However, he watched his former side lose 4-2 in what was their worst home defeat in the competition ever. Should Guardiola take the USMNT job, he could be on the touchline in time for the Gold Cup next summer.