Manchester United are reportedly moving closer to naming Mauricio Pochettino as their new manager, leaving Michael Carrick’s position in serious doubt. According to football insider Fabrizio Romano on X, negotiations with the former Chelsea and Tottenham boss are progressing as the club weighs its options.
Argentinian Coach Mauricio Pochettino
Manchester United are reportedly advancing in talks to appoint Mauricio Pochettino as their new head coach, with Michael Carrick’s future at the club hanging in the balance.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano in a post on X, discussions with the former Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea manager are progressing, with Pochettino keen on taking the job.
“Manchester United are advancing in talks to appoint Mauricio Pochettino as new head coach. Pochettino wants the job and talks are moving forward, as @TheAthleticFC reports. He’s the clear favorite waiting for club final decision,” Romano wrote.
The development comes as Carrick continues to oversee first-team training at the club’s Carrington training ground, despite growing expectations that he could be dismissed.
In an earlier update, Romano disclosed that there had been no formal communication from Manchester United regarding Carrick’s future, but indicated that a decision could be announced at any moment.
“No formal communication from the club on his future yet but from today expected any moment,” he wrote.
Romano added that the expectation remained for Carrick to be sacked, with the club waiting for co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s approval.
Carrick’s position has come under increasing scrutiny following Manchester United’s disappointing start to the 2026/27 season, which has left the club in the Premier League relegation zone.
The Red Devils currently occupy 18th position with eight points from 10 matches, having managed just one league victory and endured an eight-game winless run in the competition.
The pressure increased after United suffered a 3-0 home defeat to Bournemouth on October 25, followed by a 2-0 loss to Chelsea. Although they defeated Roma 3-2 in the Champions League, they were unable to secure a league victory in their subsequent encounter, drawing 4-4 with Aston Villa after twice coming from two goals behind.
The club’s hierarchy had reportedly given Carrick three matches against Chelsea, Roma and Aston Villa to improve results before the November international break. However, the outcome of that assessment has left his position increasingly uncertain.
Pochettino, who previously managed Tottenham Hotspur, Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea, is now reportedly the leading candidate to replace Carrick, with Manchester United expected to make a final decision on the appointment.
The Argentine is currently in charge of the United States men’s national team, making any potential move dependent on the outcome of discussions and the club’s final decision.
What You Should Know
Manchester United are actively searching for a managerial change after enduring a disappointing start to the season that has left them struggling in the Premier League relegation zone. Current coach Michael Carrick faces imminent dismissal following a winless streak that has intensified pressure from club leadership.
- Positive Impact: Fans and stakeholders may see a much-needed tactical overhaul and renewed leadership that could help rescue the club’s faltering season.
- Potential Concerns: Bringing in a high-profile manager like Pochettino mid-season comes with disruption, and his current commitment to the United States national team could complicate transition timelines.
