United risk relegation hopes by hiring USMNT boss Pochettino
On Wednesday 11 November 2026, United States Men’s National Soccer Team (USMNT) head coach Mauricio Pochettino was seen walking onto the pitch in Fayetteville, Georgia, before being confirmed as Manchester United’s new manager, signing a two-and-a-half‑year deal after the club bought out his US contract, reported at $10 million and $20 million. The image was credited to Mike Stewart/AP.
Appointment and contract
David Ornstein of The Athletic reported on Thursday that Pochettino will succeed Michael Carrick as Manchester United’s manager. United bought out the remainder of his US contract, reported at $10 million and $20 million, and offered him a two‑and‑a‑half‑year deal. United currently sit 18th in the Premier League with a 1‑5‑4 record. He becomes the club’s ninth manager since Sir Alex Ferguson retired after the 2012‑13 season.
Pochettino’s pedigree
Before taking the United job, Pochettino coached Chelsea, Paris Saint‑Germain, Tottenham, Southampton and Espanyol. His most successful English spell was with Tottenham, where he compiled a 160‑60‑73 win‑draw‑loss record over five seasons. He guided Tottenham to the 2019 UEFA Champions League final, finishing as runner‑up. He also secured three top‑three Premier League finishes between 2015 and 2018, including a second‑place finish in 2016‑17, the club’s highest in the Premier League era. Pochettino led the United States to the Round of 16 at their home World Cup before they were eliminated by Belgium. Pochettino returns to England's top flight for a fourth stint. The Argentine manager is 54 years old.
Squad outlook and transfer rumours
Pochettino inherits a squad that has often been booed off the pitch by a disenchanted fanbase. He may seek signings in the January window but must work with the current group until then. Matheus Cunha could thrive as an inverted winger, a role Pochettino favours. Bryan Mbeumo has been deployed up front due to Benjamin Sesko’s injuries and could remain in that position until Sesko returns. Kobbie Mainoo, despite lacking Dembele’s athleticism, offers press resistance and running power that could be valuable for Pochettino. Mason Mount, praised by Erik ten Hag, Ruben Amorim and Michael Carrick, may receive a new chance if he can prove his fitness. Pochettino had attempted to retain Mount at Chelsea in 2023, but negotiations failed and Mount joined United that summer. Youri Tielemans appears at risk of leaving after Pochettino turned down a move, despite Tottenham’s board suggestion. Andrey Santos is another potential recruit whose future remains uncertain. Luke Shaw’s left‑back role may be taken over by Patrick Dorgu as Pochettino prefers robust full‑backs. Diogo Dalot’s right‑back shortcomings persist, though his stamina aligns with Pochettino’s expectations. Harry Maguire, 34, is also in danger as United have conceded 19 goals in 10 Premier League games this season. Leny Yoro could be a bright spot in the defence. Pochettino’s system demands a high defensive line, requiring centre‑backs with pace. Harry Kane has dropped hints of a possible return to the Premier League under Pochettino at Manchester United. He recently signed a new Bayern Munich contract, reported at £20 million and £27 million, and even added a £20 million golf simulator to his UK mansion. Kane said he is unsure about returning, saying a perfect situation would be needed but he cannot imagine it now.