Picture this: Mauricio Pochettino, a seasoned coach at club level, now leading the US men’s national team onto the pitch at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles for the 2026 World Cup finals. The world will be watching, eager to witness a new chapter in his illustrious career.
What sets Pochettino apart is his unwavering team loyalty. Four familiar faces join him with the USMNT: Miguel ‘Miki’ D’Agostino, Antonio ‘Toni’ Jimenez, Jesus Perez, and his son Sebastiano. These are the individuals who have stood by his side through thick and thin, from Spain to England, France, and now the USA.
The core team, comprising Perez, Jimenez, and D’Agostino, was formed during Pochettino’s early days at Espanyol. Sebastiano later joined as a fitness coach and sports scientist, bringing a fresh perspective to the group. Another new addition, Silvia Tuya Vinas, adds depth to the team as a strength and conditioning coach.
Pochettino’s vision for the USMNT extends beyond just his inner circle. He aims to leverage the expertise already present in the U.S. Soccer set-up while remaining open to new additions who understand American soccer and the players.
At a recent press conference, Pochettino emphasized the importance of having a well-rounded support staff to maximize player performance. He recognizes the evolving landscape of football and the need for specialized skills to analyze and optimize player abilities.
The close-knit group of coaches surrounding Pochettino plays a critical role in shaping his coaching philosophy. Each member brings unique strengths and experiences that complement the team’s dynamic.
Let’s dive deeper into the individuals who form the backbone of Mauricio Pochettino’s coaching staff for the USMNT as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup.
First up is Miguel ‘Miki’ D’Agostino, a longtime companion of Pochettino since their playing days at Newell’s Old Boys. Despite a modest playing career, D’Agostino’s analytical skills make him invaluable to the team, overseeing scouting and analysis operations.
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Antonio ‘Toni’ Jimenez, a former goalkeeper, brings his vast playing and coaching experience to the role of goalkeeping coach. His keen understanding of the game complements Pochettino’s tactical approach.
Pochettino and Jimenez celebrate Spurs’ Champions League semi-final win over Ajax in 2019 (Bradley Collyer/Getty Images)
