Mauricio Pochettino appointed Manchester United head coach on two-and-a-half-year deal

Manchester United confirmed that Mauricio Pochettino, 54, will take over as head coach on a two-and-a-half-year contract. The former United States men’s national team manager left his U.S. Soccer role after the club activated a $10 million release clause in his contract.

Pochettino, who previously managed Southampton, Tottenham, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain, will make his United debut when the team travels to Anfield to face Liverpool on Nov. 22. He succeeded Michael Carrick, who was dismissed after 15 games of a two-year contract signed in May.

United chief executive Omar Berrada informed U.S. Soccer of the club’s intention to trigger the release clause, and sources said Pochettino’s representatives first alerted United to the clause. The club’s leadership team reportedly selected him as the unanimous choice, with approval from minority shareholder Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the Glazer family.

"The Argentinian is renowned for his high-intensity, attacking style of football, his dedication to building strong, cohesive teams and his outstanding record of developing individual players," a United statement read.

United officials said Pochettino’s extensive Premier League experience and his reputation for tactical acumen made him the preferred candidate. The club also highlighted his ability to handle the scrutiny that comes with managing Old Trafford.

Pochettino will complete his remaining two U.S. men’s national team matches against Haiti before joining United at Carrington on Wednesday. U.S. Soccer announced that Steve Cherundolo will lead the national team’s December camp and that a search for a permanent replacement will involve senior federation officials, including CEO JT Batson and U.S. women’s national team coach Emma Hayes.

"Mauricio has left a lasting mark on U.S. Soccer through his leadership, professionalism and commitment to our players and culture," JT Batson said in a statement.

United sit 18th in the Premier League with one win this season, and the appointment is aimed at improving the team’s performance ahead of the upcoming fixtures.