Pochettino move could reshape Manchester United squad with Rashford and Maguire under pressure

Mauricio Pochettino is reportedly close to taking charge of Manchester United and leading a rebuilding project at Old Trafford after Michael Carrick’s departure.

United announced on Thursday that Carrick had left his position following a disappointing start to the season, with the club saying it wanted to appoint a permanent manager as soon as possible. Reports suggest an agreement is close with Pochettino, who is currently manager of the United States national team.

The former Tottenham manager has built a reputation for improving struggling players and promoting young talent. However, he would inherit a major challenge, with United’s disastrous start leaving them in the relegation zone.

Some players could benefit from Pochettino’s appointment, while others may struggle to adapt to his demanding, high-intensity approach.

Potential winners

Shea Lacey has impressed in spells this season, scoring against Brighton in the League Cup and providing an assist in the 3-2 win over Roma. The 19-year-old has attracted calls from supporters for a regular starting role, and Pochettino’s willingness to trust young players could give him the chance to establish himself.

Kobbie Mainoo also appears well suited to the Argentine’s style. Pochettino has favoured energetic midfielders who can retain possession, carry the ball through the lines and control the tempo. He admired Mousa Dembele at Tottenham and achieved success with Moises Caicedo, while Mainoo has recently returned to full fitness and could provide the all-round midfield qualities United need.

Lisandro Martinez looked likely to leave after criticising the board’s transfer decisions and receiving heavy criticism following his red card in the 2-0 defeat by Chelsea. He had been expected to depart in January, but could receive a second chance under his fellow Argentine.

Mason Mount is another player who could benefit. Pochettino tried to keep him at Chelsea when United pursued him in the summer of 2023, although Mount eventually moved for £60m. The manager viewed him as an ideal number 10 for his high-pressing 4-2-3-1 system.

Mount’s movement, creativity and willingness to work defensively would suit Pochettino, although his fitness remains a concern. He has made only one Premier League start this season and has played 134 minutes.

Potential losers

Luke Shaw was developed by Pochettino at Southampton during the 2012-2013 season, when the manager was so keen to monitor his diet that he visited his home to ensure he was not eating pizza. Shaw joined United in the same summer Pochettino left Southampton for Tottenham in 2014.

Despite making 330 appearances for United, injuries and fitness problems have restricted him in recent years. His lack of availability could be a problem in a high-pressing system, especially with Patrick Dorgu – scorer of the equaliser in the 4-4 draw against Aston Villa this weekend – appearing better suited to covering both ends of the flank.

Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos arrived with high expectations after United paid £90m for the pair, but both have been criticised for lacking energy and movement. Their focus is on possession and building attacks rather than carrying the ball forward, qualities that fitted Carrick’s approach but may not satisfy Pochettino’s demand for players who can run for 90 minutes and recover the ball.

Harry Maguire, who turns 34 in March, has started all 10 of United’s matches this season as Carrick relied on experience. But the defence has conceded 19 goals, and Pochettino could consider Aidan Heaven or Leny Yoro alongside Martinez. Maguire’s lack of pace may count against him despite his technical ability.

Marcus Rashford was described by Pochettino as a “great player” during the 2022 World Cup, but he has struggled since then. After a productive loan spell at Barcelona last season, he has returned without scoring or providing an assist for United this campaign. His last start came against Fulham in September.

Pochettino has revived dangerous forwards such as Son Heung-min, but Rashford’s form and questions over his work rate without the ball leave his future uncertain.

Senne Lammens has also faced criticism after making two serious errors in the draw with Aston Villa and keeping only one clean sheet. He is likely to remain first choice because of the lack of alternatives, but another inconsistent performance could prompt Pochettino to seek a replacement in January or later.