Reports: Mikey Varas will coach USMNT in upcoming September friendlies even if Mauricio Pochettino is officially named

Former U.S. U-20 manager Mikey Varas will reportedly coach the men's national team in its upcoming September friendlies against Canada and New Zealand, even if U.S. Soccer finalizes the hiring of Mauricio Pochettino.

This decision comes due to several circumstances. Reported new hire Pochettino is in the midst of resolving an unpaid wage dispute against his last club, Chelsea FC. Pochettino cannot sign a contract with U.S. Soccer until that situation is resolved. In addition, the U.S. Soccer Federation wants to give their incoming coach time to familiarize himself with the organization and the American soccer landscape.

ESPN, the Washington Post and the Athletic all reported the news of Varas coaching the USMNT on an interim basis.

Varas served on Gregg Berhalter's staff during the U.S.'s 2024 Copa America and also previously was the head coach of the U20 team from 2021 -2023. He also was an assistant on Luchi Gonzalez's FC Dallas staff from 2016-2019.

The decision to elevate Varas means fans won't get to see a highly-anticipated matchup between Pochettino and Canada's Jesse Marsch -- who was once linked as a candidate for the USMNT job.

Varas will help get the USMNT prepared for its two upcoming friendlies against Canada and New Zealand on Sept. 7 and 10 respectively. Pochettino could potentially make his debut as head coach when the U.S. host Panama on Oct. 12.