United hires Mauricio Pochettino as he leaves US role with task of reviving team
A new challenge at United
Pochettino has coached Southampton, Tottenham and Chelsea in England, Espanyol in Spain and Paris Saint-Germain, with whom he won the French title. He has not won a major trophy in England; his most recent attempt ended with Chelsea losing the English League Cup final in 2024.
Leaving the US national team
Batson praised Pochettino’s leadership and commitment to the players and team culture. Batson said Pochettino and his staff raised standards and improved connections between youth national teams and the senior team.
United’s recent struggles
Pochettino’s appointment came a day after Michael Carrick was fired. United was 18th in the Premier League after its worst league start in 40 years. Several managers have struggled to meet expectations since Ferguson’s departure, including Champions League-winning coaches Louis van Gaal and Jose Mourinho, as well as David Moyes, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Erik ten Hag.
US coaching options ahead
The U.S. Soccer Federation is likely to gauge Pep Guardiola’s interest and could consider promoting Under-23 coach Steve Cherundolo, a former national team defender.
Key points
- Pochettino signed a 2 1/2-year deal with Manchester United.
- He is scheduled to take over Nov. 18, four days before a match at Liverpool.
- He will remain with the U.S. team for two Nations League quarterfinals against Haiti.
- United was 18th in the Premier League after its worst league start in 40 years.