Overview of “Pochettino Set to Become Man United Manager”
The Totally Football Show discusses an Athletic report that Manchester United are negotiating with Mauricio Pochettino as a possible replacement for Michael Carrick. The panel weighs whether Pochettino could steady United in the short term and whether his coaching style and track record make him a fit for the club’s deeper problems.
What the Report Says
The reported move depends on United dismissing Carrick. Pochettino is currently managing the United States men’s national team, and the timing could leave him with international commitments before joining United. The panel expects he could be in charge for the upcoming match at Liverpool, though that was not confirmed during the recording.
The Case for Pochettino
- Tim Spears argues Pochettino could improve results, lift the mood and get United into the top half of the table.
- Duncan Alexander expects an improvement over Carrick, citing Pochettino’s tactical ability, work with young players and experience managing big personalities.
- His Tottenham tenure remains a major part of his reputation: he developed academy players and built a highly competitive side despite limited resources.
Reasons for Doubt
- James Horncastle questions whether Pochettino’s later jobs have matched his success at Tottenham. He points to PSG’s league-title expectations, Chelsea’s defensive problems and the United States’ heavy defeat to Belgium at the World Cup.
- Pochettino’s teams rely on intense running and pressing, which the panel says may not suit United’s current squad.
- United may still lack depth and balance, including at left back and centre forward. The panel also questions whether the club would give Pochettino the players and backing he would need.
United’s Wider Problems
The discussion suggests that United’s instability goes beyond the manager: recruitment, ownership and decision-making have all been criticized. Horncastle argues that even a high-profile appointment may struggle without a clear plan and a more coherent club structure. Spears sees Pochettino as a likely short-term boost, but worries United could face another managerial reset within a year.
Overall Takeaway
The panel sees Pochettino as capable of improving United in the near term, but is divided on whether he can build a lasting solution. His appointment would bring stature and energy; whether that translates into sustained progress depends on the squad and the club’s willingness to support a clear plan.