Pep Guardiola could miss out on USMNT job as Cristiano Ronaldo’s former coach enters the race

• United States Soccer has set its sights on Pep Guardiola to replace Mauricio Pochettino following his move to Manchester United.

• The legendary Catalan manager intention remains to take an extended sabbatical rather than jump straight into international management.

• Roberto Martínez, who previously managed Cristiano Ronaldo with Portugal, has emerged as a realistic and experienced candidate.

Mauricio Pochettino departure to take charge of Manchester United has triggered an extensive search by United States soccer officials to secure a high profile successor for the national team. While the federation dream candidate is elite Catalan tactician Pep Guardiola, multiple reports indicate that securing his services remains a significant long shot due to his established personal timeline; consequently, alternative managerial profiles with proven international pedigree are rapidly gaining momentum behind the scenes.

US Soccer are plotting an ambitious move for Pep Guardiola to replace Mauricio Pochettino, as first called by @tombogert, @PaulTenorio and @HenryBushnell.

Guardiola is the dream target and talks are expected to accelerate in the coming weeks.

Also understand Roberto Martinez is open to the role if approached.

Coaching at Los Angeles 2028 not something the USMNT can use to lure a big name as Steve Cherundolo already has that role.🇺🇸

🤝 @alex_crook

— Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) November 12, 2026

Sabbatical plans make a Guardiola appointment highly unlikely

Despite the immense prestige that hiring one of the most successful managers in football history would bring to North American soccer, Guardiola stance appears firmly focused on stepping away to recharge after demanding spells at Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Manchester City. The Spanish coach has previously emphasized his desire to take a well deserved break from the relentless pressures of elite club football; furthermore, lingering questions remain over whether international management appeals to a tactician who has spent his entire illustrious career exclusively in demanding club competitions.

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Roberto Martínez emerges as a realistic and qualified alternative

With Guardiola expected to maintain his well documented break from the touchline, federation leadership is shifting attention toward pragmatic options with deep international experience. Chief among them is Roberto Martínez, who most recently managed Cristiano Ronaldo and the Portuguese national team following a highly successful tenure with Belgium. Martínez fits the desired profile seamlessly due to his fluent English, his extensive Premier League background and his proven ability to navigate the complex demands of managing elite talent in high pressure international environments.

Strategic planning takes center stage for United States soccer

As the clock ticks and the federation faces mounting pressure to establish a clear sporting direction ahead of major upcoming tournaments, leadership must carefully weigh their options before naming a permanent successor. While the allure of a marquee managerial appointment continues to captivate supporters across the country, securing a pragmatic leader with proven tournament experience may ultimately provide the stability required; thus, the upcoming weeks will prove decisive in shaping the future of the national program.

Cover photos from: @pepteam