Manchester United Target Mauricio Pochettino as Michael Carrick Faces Exit
Manchester United have reportedly opened talks with the United States Soccer Federation over a possible appointment of Mauricio Pochettino as their next manager.
The Premier League club are said to be considering triggering the Argentine coach’s $10 million release clause as they prepare for a possible change in leadership at Old Trafford.
According to reports, senior United executives, including chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox, met minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe in Monaco on Wednesday, November 11. The club also scheduled a meeting with current manager Michael Carrick for Thursday.
Carrick, 45, is reportedly facing an uncertain future following a difficult start to the campaign. He signed a two-year contract in May but has struggled to deliver consistent results.
Manchester United are currently 18th in the Premier League table, with their only league victory reportedly coming against newly promoted Ipswich Town in August.
Despite the uncertainty, Carrick remained at the club’s Carrington training ground on Wednesday to supervise players who were not away on international duty.
Manchester United consider cost of Pochettino appointment
Beyond the reported $10 million release clause, United are also expected to spend another $2 million to bring Pochettino’s backroom staff to Old Trafford.
The proposed package reportedly includes his long-time assistant, Jesus Perez.
However, the Argentine manager is currently focused on his responsibilities with the United States men’s national team (USMNT).
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The US team are preparing for a two-legged Concacaf Nations League quarter-final against Haiti, scheduled for November 14 and 17.
US Soccer reportedly expects Pochettino to remain in charge for both matches. They would be the team’s first competitive fixtures since winning all four matches during the September and October international windows.
Pochettino’s Premier League experience
Pochettino has considerable experience in English football, having previously managed Southampton, Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea.
He has also been linked with the Manchester United managerial position on several occasions, including in 2018, 2022 and 2024.
Manchester United are scheduled to return to Premier League action after the international break with an away fixture against Liverpool at Anfield on November 22.
Although discussions over a possible managerial change are reportedly underway, the club has yet to confirm Pochettino’s appointment.
