Pochettino Signs Two-and-a-Half-Year Man United Deal
Manchester United have appointed Argentine manager Mauricio Pochettino as their new head coach on a two-and-a-half-year contract, bringing an end to his spell in charge of the United States men’s national team.
The 54-year-old takes over at Old Trafford following the dismissal of Michael Carrick, who left the club after a disappointing run of results pushed the Premier League giants into the relegation zone. Pochettino is expected to officially assume his new responsibilities after completing his remaining international commitments with the United States.https://apnews.com/article/pochettino-manchester-united-us-5f28d4506d3e200759024745237e6fd0
Pochettino Replaces Carrick at Old Trafford
Manchester United turned to Pochettino after deciding to part ways with Carrick on Thursday, November 12.
Carrick had initially been appointed in January 2026 and enjoyed a strong finish to the previous campaign, guiding United to third place in the Premier League and securing qualification for the Champions League.
His fortunes changed dramatically this season, however, as United struggled to reproduce that form. The club’s poor start left them in the relegation zone, prompting the hierarchy to make a managerial change.
According to reports, Pochettino’s agreement runs until the summer of 2029. His appointment represents another attempt by United to establish stability in the dugout following several managerial changes since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013.
Argentine Manager Leaves United States Job
Pochettino’s move means he will leave the United States national team, which he has managed since 2024.
The former Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea boss had agreed to continue leading the Americans towards the 2030 World Cup after signing a contract extension in August.
He guided the United States through the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where the co-host nation reached the round of 16 before its campaign ended.
At a news conference announcing his departure, Pochettino became emotional while discussing the decision to leave the national team.
He described the move as one of the most difficult decisions of his career, acknowledging the significance of his experience with American football.
The United States Soccer Federation also praised his contribution, saying he had strengthened the team’s culture and improved connections between youth and senior national teams.
Man United Pay to Secure Pochettino’s Services
Manchester United reportedly paid a release fee to secure Pochettino’s departure from the United States national team.
According to Front Office Sports, the Premier League club agreed to pay approximately $10 million for the manager’s release, alongside additional compensation for members of his coaching staff.
Pochettino previously managed several prominent European clubs, including Tottenham, Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea.
He guided Tottenham to the 2019 Champions League final and won the French league title during his time at Paris Saint-Germain.
His experience in the Premier League and record of developing young players were among the qualities that made him attractive to United.
Liverpool Trip Awaits New United Manager
Pochettino will first complete his remaining commitments with the United States, which has two Nations League quarter-final matches against Haiti.
He is expected to take charge of Manchester United ahead of their Premier League meeting with Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday, November 22.
The fixture will provide an immediate test for the new manager as he attempts to improve the club’s position and restore confidence among supporters.
United face considerable pressure to turn their season around, with the team needing improved results to move away from the relegation zone.
Pochettino’s appointment gives the club an experienced manager with a history of working in English football. His immediate challenge will be to translate that experience into better performances and results at Old Trafford.
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