Mauricio Pochettino is reported to be close to becoming the next Manchester United manager, replacing Michael Carrick, who is set to be dismissed after a dismal start to the season. United sit 18th in the Premier League after ten games, their lowest position at this stage of a campaign since 1986. Old Trafford bosses held a review into Carrick's position earlier in the week, and one source says a full agreement has been reached with Pochettino, though the deal is still being finalised.

Pochettino has previously worked at Southampton, Tottenham and Chelsea in England, as well as Espanyol and PSG abroad, and was most recently head coach of the USA. Eddie Howe, Fabian Hurzeler, Unai Emery, Antonio Conte and Julian Nagelsmann were all linked with the role in recent weeks, but Pochettino has been chosen as the first-choice candidate. Fabrizio Romano has reported that United may have to wait a few days before Pochettino arrives, though conversations about January plans have already taken place.S1S2

A fragile defence has been one of the biggest problems for United this season. Former striker Charlie Austin told OLBG that Pochettino needs a whole new back four and suggested Real Madrid and Germany centre-back Antonio Rudiger, who previously spent five years at Chelsea, as a possible signing. Austin also floated Cole Palmer, who flourished under Pochettino at Chelsea and was tentatively linked with Old Trafford last summer.S1

Former United striker Teddy Sheringham has urged Pochettino to make Brighton forward Charalampos Kostoulas his first January target, to cover for the injury-plagued Benjamin Sesko. Kostoulas, 19, has five goals and four assists in all competitions this season and joined Brighton from Olympiakos for £30million in summer 2025. Brighton are reportedly valuing him at around €70m (£58m), and Sheringham expects his price to rise significantly, warning that Arsenal could move first. Pochettino's first game in charge is expected to be a daunting trip to Anfield.S1S2