The U.S. men's national team has locked in its World Cup training base: Irvine, California. Head coach Mauricio Pochettino led a three-year search that ended with the selection of the Orange County city. The team will use the facility as its home camp for the tournament.
A three-year search led by Pochettino
Finding the right spot took time. Pochettino and his staff evaluated multiple locations across the country before settling on Irvine. The coach wanted a base that could provide consistent training conditions, easy access to amenities, and a setting where the squad could focus without distractions. Irvine, with its mild climate and existing sports infrastructure, checked those boxes.
Why Irvine
The city sits about 40 miles south of Los Angeles. It's home to the Orange County Great Park and several soccer-specific fields. The USMNT will likely train at facilities used by local clubs and universities. While the exact venue hasn't been detailed, the area has hosted national team camps before. Pochettino's decision ends a process that began shortly after he took over the team.
What the base means for the team
Having a fixed base early gives the squad stability. Players can plan travel and families can arrange logistics. It also allows the coaching staff to design a tailored training regimen. The USMNT has often used multiple temporary camps during World Cup cycles. This time, they'll have one home throughout the tournament run.
Preparations on the horizon
The team now shifts to finalizing its roster and schedule of friendlies. The World Cup draw is still months away, but the base is set. Pochettino has made clear he wants the team to arrive in Irvine early and build chemistry. The next public milestone will be the release of the preliminary roster.
