Pochettino poised to become Manchester United manager after Carrick's pending exit
Chief football writer Phil McNulty notes that Mauricio Pochettino is likely to be appointed Manchester United manager following Michael Carrick's expected dismissal.
Mauricio Pochettino is expected to take over as Manchester United manager after the club completes the formalities surrounding Michael Carrick's dismissal, according to chief football writer Phil McNulty. Pochettino's connection with United dates back to 2016, when he met Sir Alex Ferguson in London while managing Tottenham.
The Argentine was previously linked to the United job after the departures of Louis van Gaal in 2016, Jose Mourinho in 2018, and Erik ten Hag in 2024. With Carrick, 45, likely to leave, United’s ownership group – including part-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox – appears ready to move forward.
Pochettino, who is currently the United States national team coach, has a record of building attacking sides at Tottenham and achieving domestic trophies with Paris Saint-Germain. Spanish football analyst Guillem Balague said there is “a fit with the people at the club” and highlighted Pochettino’s long-standing admiration for United, noting frequent references to Sir Alex Ferguson in his biography.
If appointed, Pochettino would join a United squad that has struggled in recent seasons, and he would need to work with the club’s senior management to address performance issues. His reputation for developing players such as Harry Kane and Son Heung-Min, as well as his experience in major tournaments, will be closely examined as United seeks a new direction.