USMNT Tracker: Matarazzo Creates History with Copa del Rey Triumph, Balogun's Hot Streak Continues
History was made in Spanish football as Pellegrino Matarazzo became the first American manager to capture a major trophy in Spain, guiding Real Sociedad to Copa del Rey victory over Atletico Madrid in a dramatic penalty shootout. It's a milestone achievement that deserves serious recognition.
The 48-year-old New Jersey native joined the Basque club in December after rejecting offers from Major League Soccer and taking time to regroup following his departure from Hoffenheim. In his 14 La Liga matches at the helm, Real Sociedad have suffered only three defeats. Combined with a Copa del Rey championship, this represents the most intriguing American coaching success story in recent memory.
"I feel that this is just the beginning," Matarazzo stated following the final. Given Real Sociedad's strong position to qualify for Europa League competition next season based on their current form, his confidence appears well-founded.
Could the USMNT door reopen for Matarazzo?
The timing is significant. When Gregg Berhalter departed in 2024, Matarazzo was a legitimate contender for the United States men's national team position. U.S. Soccer ultimately selected Mauricio Pochettino, opting for the Argentine's established reputation. Few questioned the decision at the time. However, Matarazzo's remarkable success in La Liga ensures his name will resurface whenever the national team coaching position becomes available again.
His response to being overlooked was professional and classy: "Pochettino is an excellent choice... a big name like Pochettino can absolutely do" what the federation required ahead of hosting a World Cup. Diplomatic and mature — and now validated as the most accomplished American coach currently working in Europe's elite leagues.
Tracking the broader USMNT landscape
While Matarazzo flourishes in Spain, Christian Pulisic faces challenges. The Milan attacker remains without a goal or assist in Serie A during 2025. Despite Milan's victory over Hellas Verona this past weekend, Pulisic failed to register a single shot on target or create a scoring opportunity. His new facial hair hasn't translated to improved production on the pitch.
Meanwhile, Weston McKennie continues his excellent form. His assist on Khephren Thuram-Ulien's goal during Juventus' triumph over Bologna highlighted another solid all-around midfield display — precisely the type of consistency Pochettino can rely upon without hesitation.
Folarin Balogun's scoring run shows no signs of slowing. His penalty conversion in Monaco's comeback draw against Auxerre extended his streak to eight goals in eight Ligue 1 appearances — and ten goals in ten matches across all competitions. Combined with Haji Wright's promotion to the Premier League with Coventry City and Ricardo Pepi's renewed scoring touch at PSV, Pochettino's striking options look more promising than they have in quite some time.
- Brenden Aaronson provided an assist in Leeds United's 3-0 victory over Wolverhampton and will face Chelsea in Sunday's FA Cup semi-final
- Malik Tillman and Bayer Leverkusen welcome Bayern Munich for Wednesday's DFB Pokal semi-final clash
- Daryl Dike found the net for his first goal of the campaign with West Bromwich Albion — crucial timing as the club battles relegation
Sunday's Milan versus Juventus encounter featuring Pulisic against McKennie represents the week's marquee matchup for American national team supporters. One player urgently needs a statement performance. The identity is obvious.