Mauricio Pochettino is reportedly ready to take charge of Manchester United if the club decides to sack head coach Michael Carrick following the team’s poor start to the 2026/27 Premier League season.
The Argentine, who currently manages the United States men’s national team, has emerged as the leading candidate to replace Carrick, with Manchester United reportedly making progress towards an agreement with him.
According to Sky Sports, United are close to agreeing a deal with Pochettino, although the club’s hierarchy has yet to make a final decision on Carrick’s future.
Carrick’s position has come under increasing pressure after Manchester United dropped into the Premier League relegation zone following a disappointing run of results, including Sunday’s 4-4 draw against Aston Villa.
The club’s chief executive, Omar Berrada, and director of football, Jason Wilcox, are expected to meet minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe in Monaco on Wednesday to review the team’s performances and discuss the way forward.
The meeting is expected to play a significant role in determining whether Carrick retains his position or is relieved of his duties.
The Guardian also reported that Pochettino is interested in taking the Manchester United job, with sources describing the interest between both parties as mutual.
However, appointing the former Tottenham Hotspur, Southampton and Chelsea manager would require United to negotiate his release from his contract with the United States Soccer Federation.
Pochettino signed a contract extension in August 2026 that keeps him in charge of the US national team until the 2030 FIFA World Cup. His contract reportedly contains a release clause worth approximately £7.5 million.
The 54-year-old took charge of the United States in 2024 and guided the team to the round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
He previously managed Tottenham, leading the London club to the 2019 UEFA Champions League final, and also won the French Ligue 1 title with Paris Saint-Germain during his time in France.
Meanwhile, Carrick’s future remains uncertain as Manchester United consider their options during the international break.
According to reports, Pochettino is being lined up as a potential replacement should the club’s leadership approve a managerial change.
However, no official announcement has been made regarding Carrick’s departure or Pochettino’s appointment.