Pochettino closes in on Man United job as Carrick faces sack

By Tosin Omojola

Former Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino is closing in on an agreement to become Manchester United’s next head coach, with current manager Michael Carrick reportedly facing imminent dismissal.

Negotiations between United directors and Pochettino’s representatives are progressing rapidly, and the 54-year-old Argentine is said to be eager to return to club management.

He is reportedly prepared to leave his position as United States men’s national team (USMNT) head coach immediately if a final agreement is reached.

Carrick, who signed a permanent two-year contract last summer after an impressive interim spell, has overseen a disastrous start to the 2026/27 Premier League season. United sit 18th in the table, inside the relegation zone, with just one victory all season. Despite Sunday’s chaotic 4-4 draw against Aston Villa, the club’s hierarchy has reportedly lost patience with the former midfielder.

Chief Executive Omar Berrada and Director of Football Jason Wilcox have travelled to Monaco for a previously scheduled meeting with INEOS co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and are expected to recommend Carrick’s dismissal, which Ratcliffe is likely to approve. Carrick arrived at United’s Carrington training ground early on Wednesday to oversee training, but his departure is reportedly imminent.

Pochettino signed a four-year contract extension with U.S. Soccer in August 2026 after guiding the USMNT to the Round of 16 at the home World Cup.

United would reportedly need to trigger a buyout clause estimated at $10 million (£7.5 million), while the club is also prepared to pay additional compensation to bring his trusted backroom staff, assistants Jesús Pérez and Miki D’Agostino, and goalkeeping coach Toni Jimenez to Old Trafford. Sources close to the club say the financial implications would not be a problem.

The timing could prove more difficult, with the USMNT scheduled to face Haiti in a two-legged Concacaf Nations League quarter-final beginning this Saturday.

Although Pochettino has continued preparations with the team in Georgia, discussions with United suggest he could leave immediately if an agreement is finalised.

Meetings involving United’s leadership are expected to continue in Monaco, with Pochettino now the leading candidate after alternatives including Eddie Howe and Julian Nagelsmann reportedly fell down the shortlist. If appointed, he could make his debut against bitter rivals Liverpool at Anfield on November 22.