The manager of the U.S. men’s national soccer team, Mauricio Pochettino, has dismissed claims that he held an interview for the vacant coaching position at Premier League club Brentford. This assertion comes as the team prepares for their upcoming match against Costa Rica in the Gold Cup quarterfinals.

Pochettino, addressing the media after reports surfaced, stated, “This club never contacted me; I never talked to them.” While he is a renowned manager with experience at clubs like Southampton, Tottenham, and Chelsea, he is currently committed to the USMNT through the end of the 2026 World Cup.

Brentford recently confirmed their new head coach, Keith Andrews, replacing Thomas Frank. Pochettino’s contract with U.S. Soccer means that any potential interest from other teams would require communication with the federation before any discussions could occur. Amidst tournament preparations, he emphasized the importance of focusing entirely on the team and optimizing the player roster.

While results under Pochettino have been mixed, he remains the best opportunity for the U.S. in the World Cup, making a managerial change unlikely at this juncture. Winning the Gold Cup is crucial, especially with several key players sidelined, as it could significantly alter the team’s momentum before what many consider the most pivotal World Cup in its history.