Manchester United have appointed Mauricio Pochettino as their new head coach, bringing an end to speculation over the club’s search for a replacement for Michael Carrick, who was dismissed following a disappointing start to the 2026/27 season. Corrections Policy
The Premier League giants confirmed the appointment on Friday, November 13, after reaching an agreement with the United States Soccer Federation to release Pochettino and members of his coaching staff from their international commitments.
The Argentine is expected to begin his new role at Old Trafford next week, with a contract running until the summer of 2029. His appointment represents a major decision by United’s leadership as the club attempts to rescue a campaign that has quickly developed into a difficult period for one of English football’s most successful sides.
According to Reuters, Pochettino will first complete his responsibilities with the United States men’s national team, overseeing the team’s CONCACAF Nations League quarter-final fixtures against Haiti. He is then expected to turn his attention to preparing United for their Premier League encounter with Liverpool at Anfield on November 22.
United described their new head coach as a manager recognised for his high-intensity attacking football, ability to build cohesive teams and record of developing individual players.
Carrick dismissed after disappointing run
Pochettino’s arrival follows Carrick’s departure on Thursday, November 12, after the club concluded that a managerial change was necessary to improve performances and results.
Carrick had initially earned the permanent position after an impressive interim spell in the second half of the previous campaign. His team secured 12 victories in 17 matches, helping United finish third in the Premier League and qualify for the UEFA Champions League.
Those achievements raised expectations that the former midfielder could restore stability and establish a competitive team capable of challenging the leading clubs.
However, the 2026/27 season proved considerably more difficult. United managed only eight points from their opening 10 Premier League matches, leaving them 18th in the standings and inside the relegation zone.
Their inconsistent performances included a 3-0 home defeat to Bournemouth and a 4-4 draw against Aston Villa.
Although the draw demonstrated the team’s ability to fight back from difficult situations, it did not sufficiently improve the club’s position. Editorial Standards
The decision to dismiss Carrick reflected the growing concern surrounding United’s performances and their position in the league.
The club confirmed his departure in a statement, acknowledging his contribution while explaining that a change was required to achieve its ambitions.
Agreement reached with the United States
Securing Pochettino’s services required negotiations because the Argentine had an existing agreement with the United States Soccer Federation.
He took charge of the national team in September 2024 and had recently agreed to extend his contract through the 2030 FIFA World Cup. His departure therefore required an arrangement between the federation and Manchester United.
The agreement allows Pochettino to complete his remaining international duties before moving to England. Reuters reported that United would pay compensation to secure his release, with reports placing the figure at approximately US$10 million.
The arrangement also means that Pochettino will not immediately take charge of United’s preparations while the international fixtures remain outstanding. Editorial Ethics & Independence
His expected first assignment against Liverpool will provide an early indication of the challenge awaiting him.
Facing one of United’s biggest rivals away from home is a demanding introduction, particularly when the club is fighting to move away from the relegation positions.
Pochettino brings Premier League experience
The 54-year-old arrives at Old Trafford with considerable experience in European football and the Premier League.
He first established his reputation in English football during his time at Southampton, where his energetic playing philosophy and emphasis on pressing attracted attention.
His subsequent appointment at Tottenham Hotspur proved to be one of the defining periods of his managerial career.
Pochettino transformed Tottenham into consistent contenders for major honours and guided the club to the 2019 UEFA Champions League final, where they lost to Liverpool.
He later managed Paris Saint-Germain, winning the French league title in 2022, before taking charge of Chelsea during the 2023/24 season.
Although his time at Chelsea ended without a major trophy, he helped the club secure European qualification before leaving by mutual agreement.
His international experience with the United States has further broadened his managerial background. He guided the national team through the 2026 FIFA World Cup, reaching the last 16 before returning his attention to club football.
Major rebuilding task awaits at Old Trafford
Pochettino’s appointment brings renewed hope, but the Argentine faces several challenges that will require more than a change in tactics.
United must improve their defensive organisation, become more consistent in possession and develop a stronger collective identity. The team also needs to regain confidence after a series of disappointing results.
The manager will have to assess the existing squad, identify areas requiring improvement and establish a system that makes effective use of the players available to him.
His ability to develop young talent could also become important as United seek to build a team capable of competing over several seasons rather than relying on short-term improvements.
For the club’s supporters, the appointment represents another opportunity to see Manchester United return to the level associated with its history and ambitions. Newscard
However, expectations will be matched by pressure. Pochettino has inherited a team in a difficult league position, and the immediate priority will be to collect points and move away from the relegation zone.
His first months in charge will therefore be crucial in determining whether he can restore stability at Old Trafford and establish the foundations for a more successful future.