Mauricio Pochettino receives huge contract offer ahead of USA World Cup knockout clash

Mauricio Pochettino has reportedly been offered a lucrative contract extension as the United States prepare for a crucial World Cup knockout clash against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The Americans face the Europeans in Santa Clara on Wednesday with a place in the last 16 at stake, but discussions over Pochettino's long-term future are already underway behind the scenes.

The former Tottenham and Chelsea manager was appointed in September 2024 on a deal running until the conclusion of this summer's tournament.

However, US Soccer want the Argentine to remain in charge for another four years and have presented him with a proposal that would keep him at the helm until the 2030 World Cup.

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Such an agreement would also potentially allow Pochettino to oversee the United States at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, while the country could also host the Copa America again if plans to stage the competition in America come to fruition.

According to The Athletic, an initial offer was put forward before the World Cup got under way, although all parties are expected to wait until the tournament has ended before making a final decision.

US Soccer's eagerness to secure Pochettino's services comes amid lingering doubts over whether he could eventually return to club management.

The 54-year-old has long been linked with a move back to the Premier League after previous spells with Southampton, Tottenham and Chelsea.

More recently, reports suggested he held discussions with AC Milan following the departure of Max Allegri.

The Italian giants ultimately opted to appoint former Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim instead.

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Pochettino's position in the United States also appeared less certain following the departure of technical director Matt Crocker in April.

Crocker, who previously worked alongside Pochettino at Southampton, left his role to take up a position in Saudi Arabia, prompting speculation the USMNT boss could consider his own future.

Yet Pochettino has recently indicated he would be open to extending his stay, having guided the United States to top spot in Group D after victories over Paraguay and Australia.

"Now we're focused on the World Cup," Pochettino said earlier this month.

"Then, if we want to stay, we have months to talk, or days or weeks. Because it's four years until the next World Cup."

US Soccer have reportedly been encouraged by the team's performances in front of home supporters, with expectations already exceeded after an impressive start to the competition.

Bosnia, meanwhile, have had a mixed tournament.

They drew 1-1 with Canada before being thumped 4-1 by Switzerland.

However, Bosnia ended their group-stage campaign on a high with a 3-1 victory over Qatar.

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