US Soccer Cancels Media Availability Amid Pochettino-Manchester United Talks

On November 11, U.S. Soccer canceled a planned media availability for the men’s national team, citing Veterans Day observances. The announcement came about an hour before players were scheduled to speak with reporters at the team’s training camp near Atlanta.

The team is in a 10-day camp ahead of a two-leg Concacaf Nations League quarterfinal series against Haiti, starting this weekend. The cancellation came as speculation intensified that head coach Mauricio Pochettino could leave for Manchester United. He was linked to the English club earlier in the week and has emerged as a leading candidate to replace Michael Carrick.

Pochettino recently signed a contract keeping him with the U.S. team through the 2030 World Cup. The deal reportedly includes a $10 million release clause, while Manchester United could also face compensation costs for members of his staff. U.S. Soccer is prepared for the possibility of his departure.

Players are continuing preparations for the Haiti matches while the situation develops. Defender Antonee Robinson said the team was focused on the weekend and on playing as Pochettino wants until told otherwise. He added that the rumors did not affect many of the players.

Pochettino had not directly discussed the Manchester United situation with the players. As of November 11, player media availability remained scheduled for November 12, and Pochettino was expected to hold a pregame news conference on November 13. The first Haiti leg is set for November 14.