Mauricio Pochettino has once again ruled out a return to Tottenham Hotspur this season while expressing confidence that his former club will avoid relegation despite a difficult campaign. The former Spurs manager, who led the club to some of its most successful years in the modern era between 2014 and 2019, is currently focused on his role as head coach of the US men’s national team. Speaking to reporters ahead of the US’s friendly against Portugal on Tuesday, Pochettino stressed that his full attention is on preparing for the home World Cup later this year. “I think everyone knows that I am committed with the national team here,” he said. He also noted that no approaches had been made by Tottenham or Real Madrid, where he has also been linked, regarding potential managerial vacancies. Pochettino’s US Soccer contract runs until August, meaning he will not be available for any club appointment until after the tournament concludes. He also left open the possibility of extending his tenure with the US team. “Who knows what is going to happen,” Pochettino said. “We are open. We don’t have a contract for the future. But why not? If we are happy and the federation is happy, it’s only about to see … Never say never in football. But now it’s not time to talk. It’s time to be focusing [on] the World Cup, and after the World Cup, for sure, we will have time to talk in some way or another, depending on the vision of the federation and also our feeling.” Despite Tottenham’s precarious position near the bottom of the Premier League table, hovering just one point above the relegation zone with seven matches remaining, Pochettino expressed confidence that Spurs will survive. He highlighted the quality of the squad and the passion of the fans as key factors in avoiding the drop. “I am sure they’re going to stay up, with coach or without coach,” he said. “Because of the players, because I think they have unbelievable players, and it’s a club with fans that are going to make everything to create that energy to win. Of course, that is going to be tough, because the energy and the dynamics is difficult … But if you ask me about that club, it’s a club that I really care [about], and for sure, I really trust that [they’re] going to stay in Premier League.” Tottenham are reportedly close to appointing Roberto De Zerbi as their new manager, with the club offering him a long-term contract to take over immediately. Pochettino declined to comment on the appointment but reaffirmed that his focus remains on the national team. The Argentine coach has long been linked with a return to Tottenham, and speculation has only intensified this season due to the club’s struggles. However, Pochettino’s comments make it clear that he has no immediate plans to leave his role with the US men’s team. He has overseen significant development of American players and sees the upcoming World Cup as a priority in his career. Pochettino’s reassurance comes as a boost for Spurs fans worried about the club’s survival. His belief in the squad’s quality and the support of their fanbase reflects a deep understanding of Tottenham’s culture and capabilities. While the season has been challenging, Pochettino’s confidence suggests that the team has the tools to navigate the remaining fixtures successfully. Even though he has stepped away from club football for the time being, Pochettino’s comments underline his continued affection for Tottenham and belief in their ability to overcome adversity. Supporters can take heart from his faith in the players and the club’s infrastructure, which he credits with providing the energy needed to secure Premier League survival. Pochettino’s focus on the US team, coupled with his cautious optimism for Spurs, paints a picture of a coach balancing ambition with responsibility. While a return to Tottenham is not on the horizon, his words provide reassurance that the club’s Premier League status is not in jeopardy, and fans can expect a spirited fight to the finish.