Mauricio Pochettino appointed Manchester United head coach after Michael Carrick's sacking

Manchester United have appointed Mauricio Pochettino as their new head coach, bringing an end to the uncertainty surrounding the club's managerial position following Michael Carrick's departure. The 54-year-old is set to take charge at Old Trafford after completing his commitments with the United States men's national team (USMNT).

Pochettino has agreed to a two-and-a-half-year contract with the Premier League club. He replaces Carrick, who was sacked on Thursday, November 12, following United's disappointing start to the 2026/27 season.

The Red Devils are currently 18th in the Premier League table, with eight points from their opening 10 matches. They have recorded just one win, five draws and four defeats, leaving them in the relegation zone.

Carrick's departure came despite a promising spell during the second half of the previous campaign. Initially appointed in January 2026 after Ruben Amorim's exit, the former United midfielder guided the team to a third-place finish and secured Champions League qualification.

His performances earned him a permanent contract in May, but the team's struggles this season ultimately led to a change in leadership.

When will Mauricio Pochettino take charge at Manchester United?

Pochettino will first oversee the United States' two Nations League matches against Haiti before completing his move to Manchester United. He is expected to join the club next week and begin working with the squad ahead of their upcoming Premier League fixture against Liverpool.

His first match in charge is scheduled to be the away clash against Liverpool at Anfield on November 22.

The Argentine's contract with US Soccer reportedly included a £7 million release clause, which allowed Manchester United to negotiate his departure.

The Argentine's contract with US Soccer reportedly included a 7 million Pound release clause, which allowed Manchester United to negotiate his departure.

Mauricio Pochettino's managerial experience

Pochettino arrives at Old Trafford with considerable experience in European football. He began his managerial career with Espanyol in 2009 before moving to England to take charge of Southampton in 2013.

His work at Southampton earned him the Tottenham Hotspur job in 2014. During his five-year spell with Spurs, he established the club as a regular contender for Champions League qualification and guided them to the 2019 UEFA Champions League final.

He later managed Paris Saint-Germain, winning the Ligue 1 title, before taking charge of Chelsea for the 2023/24 season.

Pochettino now faces the challenge of turning around Manchester United's fortunes and lifting the club out of the relegation zone. His immediate priority will be to improve the team's performances and build momentum as the Premier League season progresses.