Pochettino's demanding style expected to reshape Manchester United
Former Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino, appointed Manchester United manager on 18 November, is set to impose a rigorous fitness regime and strict team-first philosophy, according to former player Toby Alderweireld.
Manchester United confirmed on Friday that Mauricio Pochettino will take charge on 18 November, signing a contract through June 2029 to replace Michael Carrick. The Argentine manager is known for intense pre-season programmes, a focus on fitness and a no-nonsense, team-first approach.
BBC Sport spoke with former Tottenham defender Toby Alderweireld, who spent four seasons under Pochettino during a period that saw the club reach a Champions League final and finish second in the Premier League. Alderweireld said the manager is "very approachable but you need to follow his plan" and that players who do not adhere to his methods are likely to be sidelined.
"You need to think about team, team, team. If you're thinking about yourself, you're gone," he explained.
He added that Pochettino demands high fitness levels, describing pre-season as "brutal" and emphasizing that the team's playing style – a high-pressing, front-foot approach with a high defensive line – requires constant running and intensity.
"First of all he made us very fit. The way he wants to play – on the front foot, putting people under pressure, a high line, very dynamic play – you need to run," Alderweireld said.
United have been criticised this season for low distance covered and few high-intensity runs, placing them among the league's bottom five in those metrics. Alderweireld expects the new regime to produce immediate improvements in fitness and performance.
He recalled a Champions League semi-final against Ajax where Pochettino's halftime message focused on physicality and belief rather than tactical adjustments, leading to a comeback driven by intensity and duels.
"He just said 'you're going to be physical, you're going to fight, you only need one goal to be back in the game, believe that everything is possible'," Alderweireld recalled.
The former player concluded that Pochettino's meticulous attention to data, video analysis and player monitoring will create an environment where the squad operates as a unified unit, with the manager acting as the decisive authority.