Manchester United is set to appoint Mauricio Pochettino as their new head coach, following the sacking of Michael Carrick after a run of poor results left the club in the Premier League relegation zone.
Major Transition at Old Trafford
Pochettino, currently the USA national team manager, has agreed a two-and-a-half-year deal that will see him at United until the summer of 2029. United have triggered the £7 million release clause in his USA contract, with the Argentine expected to fly to Manchester on Wednesday and meet his new squad ahead of his official unveiling on Friday.
Final legal paperwork and compensation arrangements with US Soccer are being finalized. Out of respect, United have agreed to let Pochettino oversee both of the USA’s upcoming internationals before he joins the club full-time.
A New Era After Carrick’s Short-Lived Spell
Carrick, who took over in January 2026 after Ruben Amorim’s sacking, saw early promise fade with just one league win in ten games this season. United’s Sunday 4-4 draw with Aston Villa and a dramatic Champions League comeback against Roma weren’t enough to convince the board—even after Carrick was nominated for Premier League Manager of the Season for 2025-26.
In a statement, United said letting Carrick go was “an extremely difficult conclusion” but necessary to “achieve our ambitions.”
The majority of his coaching staff have also departed, with only goalkeeper coach Connor King remaining at Carrington.
What Happens Next?
Friday: United formally request Pochettino’s release and pay his buyout, then announce him as head coach.
Wednesday: Pochettino arrives in Manchester and meets club executives.
Thursday: Players return from international duty to meet their new manager.
Sunday: Pochettino is set for a blockbuster debut—away to Liverpool at Anfield.
Chasing Old Trafford Ambitions
Pochettino, renowned for spells at Tottenham, Chelsea, and PSG, has long been linked to the United job. He arrives with high expectations as the club’s eighth permanent manager since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement, tasked with maximizing a squad the hierarchy believes is underperforming.
With a Champions League place to chase and the season still salvageable, United’s bold move marks the beginning of a new chapter at Old Trafford.
