The USA's World Cup dream is over following defeat to Belgium in the last 16, but what does the future hold for head coach Mauricio Pochettino?
After defeats to Canada and Mexico, the USA became the third and final co-host to exit the tournament after a 4-1 thumping at the hands of Belgium.
It was a rather timid end to what had been a positive World Cup for the Stars and Stripes, who fell short in their bid to reach the quarter-finals for the first time since 2002.
But one of the questions now being asked is what does the future hold for head coach Pochettino, who has impressed in the US dugout and may be tempted to stay on.
There are, though, other potential avenues for the former Tottenham Hotspur boss to go down, and we have taken a closer look at his options.
US eager to keep Poch
It was reported last month that Pochettino had been offered a contract extension through to the 2030 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Morocco, Portugal and Spain.
The last-16 exit from this year's tournament has not done anything to change the minds of US soccer, with the official governing body adamant the Argentine tactician is the person to lead the country forward.
Pochettino was asked in his post-match news conference after the Belgium defeat about his future, to which he replied: "Now is not a moment to talk about that. I think now is a moment to see, to assess the tournament.
"You know, I'm sure in the next weeks we can start to talk if [U.S. Soccer] wants to talk."
International switch a possibility
The USA job is Pochettino's first foray into international management and he could be tempted into taking charge of another national team.
Portugal are looking for a new head coach after Roberto Martinez confirmed his exit following the defeat to Spain in the last-16 stage.
France are another country who will be looking for a new direction, with Didier Deschamps revealing he will step down at the conclusion of the World Cup.
The Netherlands have already started the search for a new boss following Ronald Koeman's resignation, with reports claiming Erik ten Hag and Arne Slot are under consideration.
Ecuador, Czech Republic, South Korea, Scotland and Tunisia are also in the market for a new coach, although it is unlikely Pochettino would be tempted by any of these projects.
Return to domestic football can't be ruled out
A return to domestic football could also be a temptation for Pochettino, who had spells at Espanyol, Southampton, Tottenham, Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea before taking over the USA.
The Premier League would be one of the likeliest destinations for the Argentine, who remains one of the most highly rated and respected managers in the game.
Michael Carrick has been given Manchester United's job on a permanent basis, but a slow start to the season would put his position in jeopardy and Pochettino potentially in the frame to replace him.
Newcastle United endured a difficult 2025/26 campaign and while Eddie Howe is still being backed by the owners, the support could waver if the Magpies start slowly.
The St James' Park project could be of interest to Pochettino and that is something to monitor more closely when the new season begins.
Taking a job in the Saudi Pro League is another potential avenue for the USA head coach, who may find it difficult to turn down a mega-money offer.
Ange Postecoglou was recently appointed Al-Nassr boss, becoming the latest high-profile manager to make the move to the Middle East.
This article was written by a partner sports writer via Spotlight Sports Group. All odds displayed on this page were correct at the time of writing and are subject to withdrawal or change at any time.
