Manchester United are finalising a deal to appoint Mauricio Pochettino as their new manager following the dismissal of Michael Carrick, with the Argentine expected to take charge at Old Trafford later this month.
An agreement has reportedly been reached for Pochettino and his backroom staff to replace Carrick, while the former Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea manager has informed the United States Soccer Federation of his desire to take the Manchester United job.
United chief executive Omar Berrada has made formal contact with US officials to confirm the existence of a £7 million release clause in Pochettino’s contract and the club’s intention to activate it.
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Pochettino recently signed a contract extension to remain head coach of the United States men’s national team until the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
However, the 54-year-old is understood to be interested in returning to club management, with United keen to complete the appointment as quickly as possible.
Pochettino to honour US commitments before moving to Old Trafford
The Premier League club reportedly wants to respect Pochettino’s commitments to the US national team. The Argentine is therefore expected to remain in charge for the Americans’ forthcoming matches against Haiti before moving to Manchester.
He is expected to arrive at the club to take training on either November 18 or 19.
Carrick sacked after poor start to season
Pochettino’s appointment follows United’s decision to sack Carrick after a disappointing start to the 2026/2027 season.
Carrick was initially appointed interim head coach in January 2026 before earning a permanent contract after guiding United to third place in the Premier League last season.
However, the club struggled for consistency this campaign, winning just three of their first 15 matches across all competitions.
Carrick’s dismissal followed Sunday’s 4-4 draw with Aston Villa at Old Trafford, a result that reportedly left United 18th in the Premier League standings.
In a statement confirming his departure, United acknowledged Carrick’s contribution during his second spell at the club.
“Michael rejoined the club in January and guided the team to a third-placed Premier League finish by winning 12 out of the remaining 17 games of the 2025/2026 season.
“He accumulated the highest points tally in the league during that period.
“After a disappointing start to the season, the club has come to the extremely difficult conclusion that a change is necessary to achieve its ambitions.
“Michael is, and always will be, a Manchester United legend.
“Just as he did as a player, he has conducted himself with the highest standards of dedication and professionalism throughout his time back with the club.
“His leadership and achievements last season will always be fondly remembered,” the statement said.
United had reportedly considered alternatives to Carrick before last month’s Premier League meeting with Bournemouth at Old Trafford.
Pochettino’s arrival would mark another major appointment in his managerial career, having previously coached Tottenham Hotspur, Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea.
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