Football

Manchester United Appoint Mauricio Pochettino as New Head Coach

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Nov 13, 2026, 18:03 IST

Manchester United have officially named Mauricio Pochettino as their new head coach on a two-and-a-half-year deal, tasking the Argentinian with reviving the club's fortunes following a difficult start to the 2026-27 Premier League campaign.

Manchester United Appoint Mauricio Pochettino as New Head Coach

Manchester United have officially confirmed the appointment of Mauricio Pochettino as their new head coach. The Argentinian tactician is set to take charge of the men's team for the remainder of the 2026-27 season, arriving at Old Trafford after the conclusion of his current commitments with the United States Men's National Team.

The Premier League club successfully triggered a release clause in Pochettino's contract with the U.S. Soccer Federation. The 54-year-old and his backroom staff will join the Manchester side once they have completed their final two scheduled fixtures against Haiti. Upon his arrival, Pochettino is expected to sign a two-and-a-half-year contract, marking a significant new chapter for a club currently navigating a challenging period.

A New Direction Following Carrick's Departure

Pochettino arrives at Old Trafford to replace club legend Michael Carrick. The change in leadership follows a difficult run of form that saw United manage only a single victory in their opening ten Premier League matches. The final straw for the previous regime was a 4-4 draw against Aston Villa at home, a result that left the club languishing in the relegation zone.

In an official statement, the club confirmed the agreement with the U.S. Soccer Federation, noting that the transition would occur immediately following the conclusion of Pochettino's international responsibilities. The appointment marks the 12th managerial change at the club, including interim appointments, since the retirement of Sir Alex Ferguson in 2013.

A Proven Track Record in European Football

Manchester United’s interest in the Argentinian is not new; the club reportedly identified him as a preferred candidate nearly a decade ago, with Sir Alex Ferguson previously expressing admiration for his work. The club highlighted Pochettino's reputation for implementing a high-intensity, attacking style of football and his commitment to squad cohesion and player development as key reasons for his hiring.

Pochettino brings extensive experience to the role, having managed across several top European leagues. His coaching journey began at Espanyol in 2009 before a successful stint at Southampton, where he secured a club-record points tally in the Premier League in 2014. He later spent five seasons at Tottenham Hotspur, transforming the side into consistent UEFA Champions League contenders and guiding them to their first final in the competition in 2019. His resume also includes spells at Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea, as well as his recent tenure with the U.S. Men's National Team, which included a run to the Round of 16.