United's desperate rebuild hinges on Pochettino's arrival

Manchester United are desperate for a fresh direction as they sit in the relegation zone after only one win from ten Premier League games, and the club’s interim boss Michael Carrick remains in charge while a possible appointment of Mauricio Pochettino, who could turn fortunes, looms, with any squad changes likely limited until January.

Why United need a new manager

Mauricio Pochettino's possible move to Manchester United is being discussed while Michael Carrick is still in charge.

Any changes to the squad may be limited until January.

Despite an annual spending spree, the club’s cupboard is relatively bare.

Both Pochettino and Carrick favour a 4‑2‑3‑1 formation.

Pochettino has limited experience with current Manchester United players, with almost no recent history.

Luke Shaw was a mainstay for Pochettino at Southampton in the 2013‑14 season.

Andrey Santos spent a preseason with Pochettino before loan spells at Nottingham Forest and Strasbourg.

Mason Mount left Chelsea for Manchester United, much to Pochettino’s chagrin during his first summer at Old Trafford.

The familiar formation would nevertheless represent a fresh start for almost everyone, including the returning Shaw.

Bruno Fernandes appears to endorse Pochettino’s pressing plans and could thrive under them.

Kobbie Mainoo, Amad Diallo, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha all fit a pressing system.

Benjamin Sesko could also perform well when he returns in a few months.

Ball‑playing centre back Matthijs de Ligt could be a leader and ball mover but needs a faster partner.

Harry Maguire does not provide the required recovery speed.

Leny Yoro currently leads the centre‑back speed leaderboard at No 33, quicker than Maguire at No 44.

Ayden Heaven sits at No 64 and Lisandro Martinez at No 73 on the same list.

Players who could fit Pochettino's system

Luke Shaw ranks well for speed among Premier League full‑backs, though his injury history remains a concern.

Marcus Rashford’s pressing ability is questioned despite the manager’s past praise.

Tyler Adams, the United States captain, could be targeted as a high‑pressing midfielder from Bournemouth.

Malik Tillman of Bayer Leverkusen is another option, though not alongside Fernandes.

United must heed Chelsea lessons before handing Pochettino the reins

Folarin Balogun, a United States centre‑forward, could provide a lower‑cost answer after a Monaco‑Everton deal fell through.

Antonee Robinson would be an excellent fit should Luke Shaw no longer suit Pochettino’s plans.

Former Paris Saint‑Germain full‑backs Nuno Mendes and Achraf Hakimi are described as dream statement signings.

Chelsea’s 23‑year‑old Malo Gusto previously worked with Pochettino at the Blues.

Toby Alderweireld believes Pochettino could succeed Michael Carrick and enjoys strong backing.

Alderweireld, who worked with Pochettino at Tottenham, says the Argentine will make players fit and add intensity.

He added that United need a team mentality now.

Alderweireld warned that immediate miracles should not be expected, noting the manager needs time but results must arrive quickly.

He also stated the club must overhaul the squad and recruit players who fit the coach’s vision.

Alderweireld is convinced Pochettino can restore the right mentality to Old Trafford.

January targets and hurdles

Manchester United aim to give Mauricio Pochettino a new centre‑back in the January transfer window, with three main targets who are under consideration.

The club has decided to sack Michael Carrick after an internal campaign assessment.

Pochettino has agreed to replace the 45‑year‑old as head coach of Man Utd.

United’s contract with the United States federation runs until July 2030, but the club will pay US Soccer £10 million to release him.

Sources reveal United will pay a total fee of over £10.5 million to secure Pochettino and his trusted coaching staff.

The Red Devils sit in the relegation zone after just one victory from ten Premier League matches.

Manchester United in talks with US Soccer over Pochettino

United’s poor defence has already cost them on several occasions this season.

Pochettino appears intent on fixing the back line with a significant January signing.

United have made the acquisition of a central defender their top priority for the winter window.

Brentford captain Nathan Collins, Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite and Fulham’s Calvin Bassey are the three main candidates.

United are exploring a move for Bassey, whose contract expires in June, though Fulham can extend it by a year.

Branthwaite has long been a target, with United submitting rejected bids of £35 million and £50 million in the summer of 2024.

United reignited interest in Branthwaite on 15 October to replace Lisandro Martinez.

Liverpool will also compete for Branthwaite, creating a battle potentially worth £70 million or more.

The club also need a new left‑back to succeed Shaw and a right‑back to replace Diogo Dalot.

David Raum, Alejandro Balde and Joaquin Seys are reported to be on United’s radar for the left‑back role.

United attempted to sign Lewis Hall in the summer, but Newcastle United rejected the approach before finalising his contract.

Roma’s Wesley Franca is currently United’s leading target for the right‑back position.

A January replacement for striker Joshua Zirkzee is also desired, though it will depend on the club’s finances.

Club officials have reportedly received a strong warning about appointing Pochettino as the new boss.