Mauricio Pochettino has emerged as the primary candidate to succeed Michael Carrick as Manchester United manager, provided the latter’s departure is confirmed. The appointment would come as the club faces its most difficult start to a season in 30 years. Manchester United currently sits in 18th place, one point off the bottom of the Premier League, having secured only one victory in their opening 10 matches—a win against Ipswich in August.
If confirmed, the 54-year-old Argentine would become the eighth permanent manager at Old Trafford since Sir Alex Ferguson stepped down in May 2013. Reports indicate that arrangements have been made for Pochettino to be released from the contract extension he signed in August to coach the United States national team. His first match in charge, should he take the role, would be an away fixture against Liverpool on November 22.
Pochettino, a former central defender, has built a reputation for promoting attacking football and developing youth prospects. His managerial career began at Espanyol, where he helped the club avoid relegation in 2009. He later gained prominence in the Premier League at Southampton, leading them to an eighth-place finish, before overseeing a period of sustained success at Tottenham Hotspur. During his tenure at Spurs, he guided the club to a Champions League final in 2019 and achieved their highest league points tally since 1963.
Following his time at Tottenham, Pochettino managed Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea. He subsequently took over the USA national team in September 2024, leading them to a round-of-16 exit during the 2026 World Cup. Analysts suggest his preference for a 4-2-3-1 formation and high-pressing tactics could suit the current Manchester United squad, although the team's lack of a reliable centre-forward may pose challenges.
Key facts
- Manchester United is 18th in the Premier League, recording its worst season start in 30 years.
- Michael Carrick remains officially in his position while reports circulate regarding his potential departure.
- Pochettino would be the eighth permanent manager appointed since Sir Alex Ferguson's exit in 2013.
- The Argentine's previous roles include managerial stints at Espanyol, Southampton, Tottenham, PSG, Chelsea, and the USA national team.
- Pochettino's tactical approach typically utilizes a 4-2-3-1 formation with a focus on possession and high pressing.
Why it matters
The club's hierarchy reportedly favors Pochettino's attacking philosophy over more pragmatic alternatives like Antonio Conte. With the team in the relegation zone, the new manager will face immediate pressure to reverse the club's fortunes, starting with a high-stakes away match against rivals Liverpool.
Background
Pochettino played over 200 league games for Espanyol and earned 20 caps for Argentina, featuring in every match during the 2002 World Cup.
Source: Al Jazeera
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