Ferdinand names Pochettino as Carrick successor
Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has named Mauricio Pochettino as the manager who should replace Michael Carrick. Carrick is on the brink of being sacked, with the club’s board set to discuss his future this week after a disastrous start to the 2026/27 season. United sit in the Premier League relegation zone, having won only three of their first 15 matches in all competitions.
USA boss Mauricio Pochettino and former Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe have been mooted as leading contenders for the post. Ferdinand explained why Pochettino stands out, highlighting his human touch and ability to rebuild confidence. "That’s a big part of Manchester United at the moment because we’ve got far too many broken individuals," Ferdinand said.
Manchester United could turn to Pochettino as Premier League hopeful
He added that Pochettino possesses more of the qualities needed to save and build the squad than other candidates. Ferdinand addressed questions over what Pochettino has won, noting the same could be said about Howe. "The standards have dropped massively so let’s be realistic about where we are," he stated, stressing the need to stabilise and return to the Champions League.
Bent unconvinced by Pochettino as Manchester United frontrunner