Pochettino reveals former club cost him career-defining job

Following Zinedine Zidane’s departure from Los Blancos in 2018, the Argentine emerged as a leading candidate for the job. However, his commitment to remain at Tottenham until their state-of-the-art stadium was completed proved pivotal, with Madrid president Florentino Perez appointing Julen Lopetegui instead. 

Lopetegui's time at the Spanish giants was short-lived, as he was dismissed in October 2018 after a string of disappointing results. Zidane would eventually return to the role in March 2019.

Meanwhile, Pochettino remained at Spurs until November 2019, when a poor run of form saw him dismissed with the club languishing in 14th place in the Premier League. His departure brought an end to a notable period of success, which included four consecutive top-four finishes and a remarkable run to the 2019 UEFA Champions League final.

The 53-year-old had hoped that his strong relationship with club chairman Daniel Levy might allow him to pursue the Madrid opportunity, but permission was not granted. Speaking to Chiringuito TV, he reflected on what might have been. 

Pochettino said: "As a player, I had the chance to play for Madrid, but it didn't happen. As a coach, I had a couple of opportunities, but sometimes, that's how things happen in football.

"I don't know whether to tell the story or not. Zidane is leaving and logically, there's the possibility of signing for Real Madrid. Surely other coaches too. I had given Levy my word that I would stay until Tottenham's new ground was finished. At that moment I told him that I would go to Madrid if Levy gave the OK. I don't know what happened afterwards. Surely he didn't give the OK. I don't know how Florentino Perez took it; it wasn't my fault. I wasn't out of contract. But it's never too late if the luck is right."

The former Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea boss has since taken charge of the United States Men’s National Team. His tenure has produced mixed results, beginning with a win over Panama, followed by a heavy defeat to Mexico and an early exit from the CONCACAF Nations League. Nonetheless, he guided the team to the 2025 Gold Cup final and is now preparing for a strong campaign at the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted on home soil.