Emotional farewell: Tearful Pochettino bids goodbye to U.S. Soccer before United confirmation
An emotional farewell
Pochettino struggled to hold back tears during a Friday farewell alongside U.S. Soccer CEO JT Batson and president Cindy Parlow Cone. “I am a very emotional guy,” Pochettino said.
Cone thanked the 54-year-old Argentine for his work with the men’s and boys’ programs and the broader federation, adding that he would be missed. Pochettino previously coached Chelsea, Tottenham and Southampton in the Premier League.
Two matches remain
Under the agreement with United, Pochettino will lead the U.S. for two more games before taking up his Manchester role on Nov. 18. The U.S. faces Haiti in Miami on Saturday in the first leg of their Concacaf Nations League quarterfinal series. The teams meet again in Cincinnati on Tuesday for the decisive second match.
United move and release clause
Reports of United’s interest began circulating on Monday. By Wednesday, the club had told the U.S. Soccer Federation it would activate Pochettino’s $10 million release clause. Carrick was fired on Thursday, clearing the way for Pochettino to succeed him at Old Trafford on a reported 2 1/2-year contract. Batson said the release funds help the federation hire strong coaches, with support from fans, sponsors and donors.
Key points
- Pochettino made an emotional farewell to U.S. Soccer on Friday.
- He will coach the U.S. against Haiti in two Concacaf Nations League quarterfinal games.
- Manchester United will trigger Pochettino’s $10 million release clause.
- Pochettino is set to begin his Manchester job on Nov. 18.