Struggling Premier League giant Manchester United fired Michael Carrick on Thursday and was closing in on a deal to replace him with U.S. men’s national team coach Mauricio Pochettino in moves that could shake up soccer on both sides of the Atlantic. United was hopeful of announcing Pochettino’s appointment before he takes charge of the U.S. team’s upcoming games against Haiti on Saturday and Tuesday, a person with knowledge of the situation told The Associated Press. the loss of Pochettino would be a major blow to the U.S. national team so soon after he signed a four-year contract extension through to the 2030 World Cup While the move could end years of decline for the 20-time English champion.
Struggling Premier League giant Manchester United fired Michael Carrick on Thursday and was closing in on a deal to replace him with U.S. men’s national team coach Mauricio Pochettino in moves that could shake up soccer on both sides of the Atlantic.
Pochettino has coached Southampton, Tottenham and Chelsea in the Premier League and won the French title with Paris Saint-Germain. Pochettino is seen as the man to resurrect the once dominant club’s fortunes after years of decline. Carrick, a serial title-winner as a player under Ferguson, was appointed on a short-term deal midway through last season and guided the team to a third-place finish and Champions League qualification. “Just as he did as a player, he has conducted himself with the highest standards of dedication and professionalism throughout his time back with the club.
Carrick was fired after overseeing United’s worst start to a Premier League season, leaving the it in the relegation zone after 10 games. He took over the U.S. in 2024 and led it to the round of 16 at this year’s World Cup. A 4-4 draw with Aston Villa on Sunday left United 18th in the 20-team standings after just one league win all season. With eight points from 10 games, it is United’s worst start for 40 years – predating the Premier League era.
United States striker Folarin Balogun said Thursday he wanted the coach to stay on with the national team. “Michael is, and always will be, a Manchester United legend,” United said.
