Pochettino open to United job – but contract with USA comes at a cost
Mauricio Pochettino has heard the rumours that Michael Carrick could be sacked and last night they were confirmed by several of England’s biggest media – and he has made up his mind. The Argentine is said to be open to taking over Manchester United if the job is offered to him. But he recently signed a lucrative deal as the United States national team manager.
Mauricio Pochettino’s thoughts on taking the job as a man for Manchester United have been revealed.
Ex-Newcastle manager Eddie Howe aims higher than bottom of the Premier League
Several managers have been linked with the United job, with former Tottenham boss Pochettino recently emerging as the favourite – and now we know why.
Big names on the list
Antonio Conte, Julian Nagelsmann, Eddie Howe and Fabian Hürzeler have all been linked with taking over at Old Trafford in recent weeks if Carrick is sacked. But new reports suggest that Pochettino, who is currently in charge of the United States, is now the leading favourite.
According to talkSPORT, the Argentine would be interested in taking the job if it is offered to him – he is open to a return to the Premier League. Pochettino has a particular admiration for Manchester United and Sir Alex Ferguson’s performances, and was also linked with Old Trafford when he was at PSG – before the club selected Erik ten Hag in 2022.
However, getting him to leave the USA national team could prove both difficult and costly. In August, Pochettino signed a new four-year contract that keeps him in the role until after the 2030 World Cup. The deal is said to be partly funded by hedge fund billionaire Ken Griffin, and his salary was already around $6 million a year in the previous contract – the highest payment ever for a USA national team manager.
Carrick: “It’s not going to happen”
After the 4-4 draw against Aston Villa, Carrick was asked about his position as head coach, having led United in their eighth league game without a win.
When asked if he would resign, he replied firmly:
“It’s not going to happen, no.
And when asked if he thinks he and the squad can turn things around, he confirmed his position:
“Yes, one hundred percent. I think that’s more than enough. Goals change games and you have to deal with it – and that’s something we have to improve drastically. But it’s more than enough. We just make it too difficult for ourselves at times.
Highlights of Pochettino’s career
Espanyol (2009–2012)
Pochettino started his managerial career at Espanyol, the club he also played for as a centre-back. He saved the club from relegation and established himself as a promising young coach.
Southampton (2013–2014)
Took over Southampton in the Premier League and led the club to eighth place – praised for his attacking style of play and ability to develop young players.
Tottenham (2014–2019)
The big breakthrough. Pochettino built a young, hungry Spurs team that challenged for the title and reached the Champions League final in 2019 – after the legendary comeback against Ajax. He also secured four straight top-four finishes and the League Cup final in 2015.
PSG (2021–2022)
His first trophies as a manager: the Ligue 1 title, the Coupe de France and the Trophée des Champions. But he was fired after only a year and a half.
Chelsea (2023–2024)
Led Chelsea to a sixth-place finish in the League Cup, as well as an FA Cup semi-final – but left the club after one season.
United States (2024–)
Took over the U.S. national team and led them to the last eight of the 2026 World Cup on home soil – where they lost 4-1 to Belgium. Despite the disappointment, he was given renewed confidence and a new contract until the 2030 World Cup.
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