Former Chelsea and Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino is now the head coach of the USA.(Image: AP Photo/Rodolfo Gonzalez)

FA considering Mauricio Pochettino showdown as England reach Thomas Tuchel agreement

The FA are considering lining up a high-profile friendly in the United States next June as part of their preparations for the 2026 World Cup, which is being staged in North America

by · football.london

England could be heading stateside for an end-of-season friendly, with the Football Association mulling over a high-profile match next June, according to reports. The potential clash could see the Three Lions face off against former Chelsea and Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino, although final details are yet to be confirmed.

The game, which could take place between June 2 and 10 during the international window, may even mark one of the first outings for England's new permanent manager. With the World Cup set to be hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, this friendly would serve as excellent preparation for England.

However, it could also pose a scheduling issue for Premier League clubs hoping for their players to enjoy a summer break and reduce travel. Chelsea and Manchester City are also due to participate in next summer's Club World Cup in the United States.

A potential friendly with England would undoubtedly attract the United States, given the allure of big-name Premier League stars. The international calendar for next year is complex, with the World Cup draw not taking place until Friday, December 13, in Geneva.

Depending on the size of their qualifying Groups, England may have the opportunity to schedule a high-profile friendly next June.

England's involvement in Nations League play-off games is still on the cards, with another international window scheduled from March 17 to 25 for either World Cup qualifiers or Nations League fixtures. No decision has been made yet regarding a US friendly, but it's a strong possibility and the FA are likely to be open to the idea, reports the Mirror.

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The FA's current priority is finding a new permanent manager - and agreement has been reached with Thomas Tuchel. The former Chelsea and Bayern Munich boss could be unveiled as soon as this week, according to the Times.

After leaving Bayern at the end of last season, Tuchel is now thought to have accepted an offer from the FA to become England's first-ever German coach. Pep Guardiola, Manchester City's boss, had also emerged as a candidate.

Carsley is expected to return to his role as England under-21s boss once Tuchel has been appointed. Speaking after England's 2-1 win over Finland on Sunday, Carsley said the role deserves a world-class coach that has won trophies. Asked if whoever eventually gets the England job has to be English, the interim boss said: "No, definitely not. I think it’s important that the best candidate gets the job."


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