USMNT Tracker: Matarazzo Makes Spanish History, Balogun's Scoring Streak Continues
History was made in Spanish football as Pellegrino Matarazzo became the first American manager to capture a major trophy in Spain, leading Real Sociedad to Copa del Rey victory over Atletico Madrid in a penalty shootout. It's a milestone worth celebrating.
The 48-year-old New Jersey native joined the Basque club in San Sebastián last December after declining opportunities in Major League Soccer and taking time to reset following his departure from Hoffenheim. Through 14 La Liga matches under his guidance, Real Sociedad has suffered only three defeats. Now add a Copa del Rey championship to the resume, and you've got the most intriguing American coaching success story in recent memory.
"I feel that this is just the beginning," Matarazzo stated after the final. His confidence appears well-founded — should Sociedad secure Europa League qualification next campaign, which their current form suggests is achievable, this venture is poised for continued growth.
The national team opportunity that slipped away — but may return
Background is important here. Matarazzo was seriously considered for the USMNT head coach position when Gregg Berhalter departed in 2024. U.S. Soccer ultimately selected the higher-profile Mauricio Pochettino instead. The reasoning was sound at the time. However, Matarazzo's remarkable success in La Liga will make him impossible to overlook when the national team coaching vacancy next becomes available.
He handled the situation with class when overlooked previously: "Pochettino is an excellent choice... a big name like Pochettino can absolutely do" what U.S. Soccer required emotionally approaching a home World Cup. Diplomatic, thoughtful — and now also the most accomplished American manager operating in Europe's elite leagues.
Other USMNT developments
While Matarazzo flourishes, Christian Pulisic continues struggling. He remains without goals or assists in Serie A during 2025. Though AC Milan defeated Hellas Verona on the weekend, Pulisic failed to register a shot on target or create a scoring opportunity. The facial hair is fresh. The production is not.
Weston McKennie, conversely, maintains his strong form. His assist on Khephren Thuram-Ulien's goal during Juventus' victory over Bologna highlighted another impressive all-around midfield display — the type Pochettino can confidently rely upon.
Meanwhile, Folarin Balogun continues his remarkable goal-scoring run. A penalty kick in Monaco's draw with Auxerre marked his eighth goal in eight Ligue 1 outings — ten goals across all competitions in ten appearances. This form, coupled with Haji Wright's Coventry City earning Premier League promotion and Ricardo Pepi scoring again for PSV, means Pochettino's striker depth looks stronger than it has in recent years.
- Brenden Aaronson provided an assist in Leeds United's 3-0 victory over Wolverhampton and faces Chelsea in the FA Cup semi-final this weekend
- Malik Tillman and Bayer Leverkusen welcome Bayern Munich in the DFB Pokal semi-final on Wednesday
- Daryl Dike netted his first goal of the campaign for West Bromwich Albion — crucial timing amid an ongoing relegation battle
The Milan derby between Pulisic and McKennie this weekend represents the must-watch fixture for USMNT supporters. One player urgently requires a standout performance. No mystery which one.