Manchester United have reportedly reached a verbal agreement in principle with Mauricio Pochettino to become their next head coach, with Michael Carrick’s future set to be decided on Wednesday.
Sky Sports reported on Wednesday that United have agreed terms in principle with the 54-year-old, who is currently head coach of the United States national team. The Athletic’s David Ornstein also reported that United are finalising a deal for Pochettino, with personal terms discussed on Tuesday and no issues expected.
Carrick remains in post for now. His future is expected to be decided at a meeting in Monaco on Wednesday attended by minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox. Berrada and Wilcox are reported to be leaning towards dismissing Carrick and recommending a change.
United are 18th in the Premier League and in the relegation zone after an eight-match winless run, their worst start to a season in 40 years. They drew 4-4 with Aston Villa at Old Trafford on Sunday, rescued by late goals from Joshua Zirkzee and Patrick Dorgu.
Pochettino signed a contract extension with US Soccer only three months ago, tying him to the national team through the 2030 World Cup. United would have to pay around $10 million (about £7.4 million) to release him from that deal, with further compensation needed for his backroom staff. United have not yet made formal contact with US Soccer.
The Argentine has managed Southampton, Tottenham and Chelsea in the Premier League, and Paris Saint-Germain in France. He has been linked with the Old Trafford job several times before.
United have the two-week international break to settle the situation before they return to action against Liverpool on November 22. Pochettino is currently due to lead the United States against Haiti on Saturday.
