Premier League16 hours ago2 minute read

Man United Target Mauricio Pochettino To Replace Sacked Michael Carrick

Manchester United are closing in on Mauricio Pochettino after sacking Michael Carrick with the club sitting 18th in the league.

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Carrick Dismissed After Poor Run

Manchester United have parted ways with manager Michael Carrick after a terrible start to the domestic campaign. Chief executive officer Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox informed Carrick of his sacking at the Carrington training ground on Thursday morning.

Carrick leaves Old Trafford after a deeply disappointing spell. The team currently sits down in 18th place in the Premier League table having picked up just a single league victory across the entire season so far.

Pursuit of Mauricio Pochettino

United are working quickly to secure his replacement. The club hopes to wrap up an agreement with Mauricio Pochettino on Thursday before paying the buyout option in his current contract with the U.S. Soccer Federation.

Representatives of the 54 year old manager originally reached out to United to let them know that a release clause existed in his deal. Berrada then held positive discussions with American soccer officials on Wednesday. United have officially notified the federation that they intend to trigger the $10 million, or £7 million, release clause as soon as personal terms are finalized with the former Argentina defender.

International Schedule and Arrival Date

Pochettino took the United States to the round of 16 at the World Cup last summer and signed a four year contract extension in August. He is now set for a quick return to English club football.

United leadership remains relaxed about the manager taking charge of the U.S. team for two matches against Haiti during the upcoming international break. Leaders from the federation and Pochettino will resolve how to move forward. United expect him to be on the ground at Carrington by Nov. 18 at the latest.

First Match Ahead

The timing allows Pochettino to get to work just as most of the squad returns. The majority of United's international players are also expected back at Carrington by Nov. 18.

That gives the new boss very little time to prepare for a major fixture. Pochettino's first game in charge of Manchester United will be an away match against Liverpool at Anfield on Nov. 22.