Juan Carlos Osorio picks Paraguay amid links to USMNT helm
Juan Carlos Osorio was appointed as the new head coach of Paraguay on Monday, quashing rumors he was under serious consideration for the United States men's national team vacancy.
He is set to be unveiled in his latest job in the coming days.
The 57-year-old Colombian masterminded a 1-0 victory over Germany and a runner-up finish in Group F at the World Cup for Mexico before the infamous quinto partido curse struck. Brazil downed El Tri in the round of 16, meaning Mexico has not reached an elusive fifth game - or quarter-final - at a World Cup since 1986.
Osorio stepped down as Mexico manager after the tournament, and he's now beginning his second stint in the international game after previously handling the New York Red Bulls, Club Puebla, Atletico Nacional, and others in club soccer.
I'm told Costa Rica, South Korea and Egypt all made offers to Juan Carlos Osorio after the World Cup (as did Brazilian sides Santos and Palmeiras, and Mexico obviously). Osorio inherits a Paraguay side ready to usher in a new generation of talent (and boasts Almiron and Kaku).
— Ives Galarcep (@SoccerByIves) September 3, 2018
The USMNT, meanwhile, is still under the temporary charge of Dave Sarachan while preparing for Friday's friendly against Brazil in New Jersey, and a tussle in Tennessee with Mexico four days later.
HEADLINES
- Mexico's Leon lose appeal against FIFA, won't play in Club World Cup
- FIFA chief Infantino praises impact of expanded tournaments
- Gold Cup draw: USMNT, Canada learn groups for summer tournament
- FIFA Club World Cup winner could net $125M from $1B in prize money
- Canada falls to Mexico, will play U.S. for 3rd place in Nations League