Pochettino may be worst fit for struggling United
Manchester United and Mauricio Pochettino have been linked on multiple occasions over the past decade, and the Argentinian is once again a candidate to take over. United previously tried to appoint Pochettino in 2016 when he was at Tottenham, but the club eventually hired Jose Mourinho. His name was also mentioned when Mourinho was sacked, when Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was dismissed, and before Erik ten Hag was appointed.
However, this may be the worst possible moment for Pochettino to take the job, as his high-pressing, front-foot style does not suit a team that is currently struggling and seems incapable of the required running. The new manager’s first priority will be to tighten up the third-worst defence in the Premier League and navigate a relegation battle.
Appointing Pochettino feels like a compromise between the low-key approach of Eddie Howe, who is technical director Jason Wilcox’s preferred candidate, and the demanding fire of Antonio Conte. Conte would arguably be the better short-term fix, but the club’s leadership is unlikely to subject itself to his scrutiny and demands.
Manchester United could turn to Pochettino as Premier League hopeful
Even if Pochettino can drag the Red Devils out of a relegation battle, the likelihood that he will be given the authority or resources to truly mould a team in his image is minimal. Pochettino and United could have been a great match in the past, but the current state of the club might make him wise to leave the opportunity behind.