Pep faces criticism as US legends oppose Guardiola appointment

Pep Guardiola could be among the candidates to take over as head coach of the US national team after Mauricio Pochettino leaves for Manchester United. However, former American stars Landon Donovan and Tim Howard believe the Spaniard is not the right fit for the job.

Howard was particularly outspoken. Speaking on the Unfiltered Soccer podcast, the former goalkeeper said Guardiola is used to working with elite players, while, in his view, the US squad lacks the same level of quality. He also questioned whether the coach could succeed with players from the second and third tiers.

Donovan called Guardiola a phenomenal coach but also voiced doubts. He said it remains an open question whether the Spaniard could work effectively with young players and those of a more modest level.

Howard also said he had spoken to a former Guardiola player who described the Spaniard as an exceptionally demanding coach. The former goalkeeper believes that approach could have a negative impact on US national team players.

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Guardiola himself has previously spoken positively about the potential of American soccer, calling the US an attractive place for a long-term project. His candidacy could now come under consideration as the federation looks for a successor to Pochettino.