Manchester United consider Mauricio Pochettino as Michael Carrick’s future comes under pressure

Michael Carrick’s position as Manchester United manager is increasingly uncertain, with the club considering a change during the next international break and Mauricio Pochettino emerging as the leading candidate to replace him.

According to French outlet Foot Mercato, United’s hierarchy are assessing whether to dismiss Carrick after a disappointing run of results. The club have won only two of their past 10 Premier League matches, despite an entertaining 4-4 draw with Aston Villa.

Carrick took charge in January, succeeding Portuguese manager Ruben Amorim. He was then given a two-year contract in May after guiding Manchester United to third place and securing qualification for the Champions League.

However, the team’s recent form has placed his future under renewed scrutiny. Carrick said after the draw with Aston Villa that he was not considering resigning.

The Daily Mail reported that Manchester United want to settle the managerial situation before their match against Liverpool at Anfield on 22 November.

Pochettino is regarded as the strongest alternative because of his extensive experience in English football. The Argentine has previously managed Southampton, Tottenham and Chelsea, and is currently in charge of the United States national team.

Although Pochettino recently renewed his contract with the United States, it contains a release clause worth more than 8 million euros. Manchester United would have to pay that amount to secure his services.

The BBC reports that Pochettino is open to taking charge of Manchester United, despite his new agreement with the United States. The contractual clause allows him to leave if he receives a suitable offer.

Pochettino is not the only name being considered. Julian Nagelsmann and Antonio Conte are also among the candidates, while Eddie Howe has previously been linked with the position. Reports indicate, however, that Howe has rejected the prospect of managing the club.

Manchester United’s final decision will therefore depend on whether the club are prepared to meet the financial cost of appointing Pochettino and resolve his contractual links with the United States.

For now, Pochettino appears to be the preferred option, but no agreement can be completed until those issues have been addressed.