Pochettino poised for Manchester United role after agreement reached

Manchester United have reached a final agreement with Mauricio Pochettino to become their manager, with the club expected to announce his appointment on Friday.

The Argentine has agreed a two-and-a-half-year contract and Manchester United have accepted a £7.4m financial clause to release him from his agreement with the United States national team, according to the British newspaper The Sun.

Pochettino, 54, is expected to take charge for the first time against Liverpool on 22 November, following the international break.

Despite reaching an agreement with Manchester United, Pochettino will remain with the United States for the time being. He is due to lead the team in their two CONCACAF Nations League quarter-final matches against Haiti, with the first meeting scheduled for Saturday and the return leg on Tuesday.

He will then travel to Manchester to begin his new job.

Pochettino returns to Premier League

Pochettino became manager of the United States two years ago and guided them to the last 16 of the most recent World Cup, hosted by the country during the summer.

His appointment at Manchester United will mark a return to the Premier League, where he previously managed Southampton, Tottenham and Chelsea.

The Argentine developed a strong reputation in English football during successful spells with Southampton and Tottenham before taking charge of Chelsea.

Carrick dismissed after poor start

Manchester United dismissed Michael Carrick after a disastrous opening to the season left the club in the relegation zone.

They recorded only one victory in their first 10 Premier League matches, alongside four defeats, and were occupying one of the bottom three places.

The club nevertheless paid tribute to Carrick and highlighted his status as a Manchester United legend, both as a former player and for his most recent coaching spell.

“Michael Carrick is a Manchester United legend and will always be one,” the club said in a statement on Thursday. “As he did as a player, he showed the highest levels of dedication and professionalism throughout his return to the club.”

The statement added: “His leadership and achievements during last season will always be appreciated and cherished.”

Carrick was seen travelling to Manchester United’s Carrington training ground on Thursday morning for the final time. He arrived at 07:50 and left at 10:15, only a few minutes before the club formally announced his dismissal.

His final match in charge was Sunday’s 4-4 draw against Aston Villa. The result left Manchester United in the relegation places and increased pressure on the manager.