Manchester United have reportedly begun discussions with USA head coach Mauricio Pochettino as the club prepares to make a major decision over Michael Carrick’s future following a disastrous start to the Premier League season.
Carrick is expected to lose his job this week, with United’s senior officials set to discuss his position during a crucial meeting in Monaco on Wednesday.
Chief executive Omar Berrada, director of football Jason Wilcox and co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe will be involved in the discussions, which could determine the club’s next managerial appointment.
Berrada and Wilcox have travelled to Monaco for a previously scheduled strategy meeting, but Carrick’s future is expected to dominate the agenda. Both officials are reportedly preparing to recommend a change in management.
United’s alarming league form has increased pressure on Carrick. The Red Devils currently sit 18th in the Premier League, having managed just one victory in their opening 10 matches.
They have also failed to win since August, leaving the club in the relegation zone. It represents United’s worst league position at this stage of a top-flight campaign since the 1986-87 season, when they were 20th.
Pochettino Emerges as Leading Candidate
Pochettino, 54, has emerged as a potential replacement, with initial talks already taking place over a possible return to English football.
The Argentine is no stranger to United’s managerial search. The club previously approached him following Jose Mourinho’s departure in 2018, before Erik ten Hag’s appointment in 2022, and again after the Dutchman’s dismissal in 2024.
However, securing his services could prove complicated.
Pochettino extended his contract with the United States national team in August and remains committed to international duties. His side are preparing for a two-legged Concacaf Nations League quarter-final against Haiti over the coming week.
The former Chelsea manager also has a release clause worth $10 million (£7.5 million), which United would need to consider if they decide to pursue his appointment.
Pochettino brings considerable experience from European club football.
He began his Premier League managerial career at Southampton in January 2013 before joining Tottenham in 2014. During five years in north London, he guided Spurs to the Champions League final.
He subsequently managed Paris Saint-Germain between January 2021 and July 2022 before returning to England for a season with Chelsea in 2023-24.
Pochettino took charge of the United States in September 2024 and guided the World Cup co-hosts into the last 16 of the 2026 tournament.
With United facing a growing battle to escape the relegation zone, Wednesday’s meeting could mark another significant managerial change at Old Trafford.
