Mauricio Pochettino could finally get the chance to manage Manchester United. The Argentine coach has reportedly reached an agreement with the club as United search for a replacement for Michael Carrick.
However, the final decision on Carrick’s future remains under discussion. If the reports prove accurate, Pochettino could soon take charge at Old Trafford.
Interestingly, Manchester United’s interest in Pochettino goes back more than a decade. The club first considered him in 2014. Since then, several opportunities have emerged, but United have always chosen other managers.
Now, the story could finally have a different ending.
Manchester United First Considered Pochettino in 2014
Manchester United’s interest in Pochettino began in 2014. The club was looking for a new manager after David Moyes left his position.
Pochettino was among the names discussed at the time. However, United chose Louis van Gaal instead. The Dutch coach had more experience and an impressive collection of trophies.
Pochettino then took charge of Tottenham Hotspur. His name continued to appear in United’s managerial discussions over the following years.
Several key moments kept the connection alive:
- 2016: United reportedly considered Pochettino when Van Gaal faced growing pressure.
- 2018: His name returned during discussions about the club’s next manager.
- 2021: United showed interest again, but Pochettino was working at Paris Saint-Germain.
Despite these links, no agreement ever followed. Pochettino continued his career with other clubs while United chose different managers.
Pochettino Missed Out Again in 2022 and 2024
Another opportunity came in May 2022, after Pochettino left Paris Saint-Germain.
He spent around 18 months at the French club and won three trophies. However, his time in Paris ended with disappointment.
According to journalist David Ornstein on The Athletic FC podcast, Pochettino reached the final two candidates in United’s managerial search.
But the club eventually chose Erik ten Hag. The Dutchman had impressed United’s decision-makers with his work at Ajax.
Pochettino returned to United’s radar in 2024. He had just left Chelsea by mutual agreement, while United were reviewing Ten Hag’s position.
The club spoke with several candidates, including Pochettino. However, those discussions reportedly left some United officials less impressed.
Ornstein said he had received mixed feedback about the process. Some sources told him that United had concerns about Pochettino’s coaching, ambition and work ethic.
He also explained that Thomas Tuchel and Roberto De Zerbi became the final two candidates before United decided to keep Ten Hag.
Once again, Pochettino missed the chance to manage at Old Trafford.
Why Are United Interested in Pochettino Again?
Manchester United now appear ready to take a different approach.
Reports suggest the club are willing to pay a release fee to free Pochettino and his coaching staff from their contract with the United States Soccer Federation (USSF).
United could have waited until after the 2026 World Cup. Instead, the club chose to promote Michael Carrick from interim coach to permanent manager following a positive end to the 2025/26 season.
Other coaching options were also available. Antonio Conte and Julian Nagelsmann were among the names mentioned.
Despite those alternatives, Pochettino appears to have regained United’s attention.
Changes inside the club may also explain this renewed interest. Jason Wilcox now plays an important role in United’s football decisions.
Wilcox joined the club as technical director in spring 2024. He later became the sporting director.
When he first arrived, Wilcox reportedly liked Ten Hag’s willingness to accept tactical advice before the 2024 FA Cup final against Manchester City.
United won that match. However, the team’s results and performances after the final placed Ten Hag’s future under further pressure.
Pochettino Has Changed Since His Previous Talks With United
Pochettino has also gained new experience since his earlier discussions with Manchester United.
His time at Chelsea highlighted the importance of clear responsibilities between a manager and the club’s senior leadership.
His current role with the United States men’s national team has given him greater involvement in long-term football planning and development.
A new contract signed in August reportedly gave him more responsibility for shaping the country’s football direction.
His previous work at Southampton and Tottenham also remains an important part of his coaching record.
At Tottenham, he helped build a competitive team and guide the club through an important period. Those experiences could now influence how United view him.
The club may be looking beyond his coaching record alone. They could also be considering his ability to build a team and follow a long-term plan.
Could Pochettino Finally Take Charge at Old Trafford?
The connection between Pochettino and Manchester United has lasted for more than ten years.
Since 2014, several opportunities have brought the two sides close. Yet changes in management plans, contract situations and career decisions have stopped an agreement from happening.
The current situation could be different. United reportedly want to move forward with Pochettino and are willing to discuss the cost of releasing him from his USMNT contract.
However, the process still depends on the club’s final decision and the outcome of negotiations with US Soccer.
If the reports prove correct, Pochettino could finally get the opportunity that has followed him throughout his career.
After years of rumours and missed chances, Manchester United and Mauricio Pochettino may finally be close to working together.
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