Manchester United reach verbal agreement with Mauricio Pochettino to replace Michael Carrick

Manchester United have reportedly reached a verbal agreement in principle with current USA coach Mauricio Pochettino to take over as their new head coach. The development comes as under-pressure manager Michael Carrick faces imminent dismissal following the club's worst start to a season in 40 years, which has left them languishing in the 18th-place relegation zone after an eight-match winless run.

Managerial Future Decided in Monaco

Carrick's future at Old Trafford is expected to be finalized during a meeting in Monaco involving key figures including shareholder Jim Ratcliffe, chief executive Omar Berrada, and director of football Jason Wilcox. Reports indicate that Berrada and Wilcox are leaning toward dismissing the 45-year-old former midfielder. Carrick reported for duty at the Carrington training ground on Wednesday, but his turbulent reign appears to be nearing its end following a series of disappointing results and internal squad discipline issues.

Pochettino's Release Clause and US Soccer

Pochettino signed a contract extension just three months ago to remain with the United States national team through the 2030 World Cup. Should he make the move to Old Trafford, U.S. Soccer would be owed compensation, as the 54-year-old manager is understood to have a $10 million release clause. A scheduled media event with U.S. Soccer players was canceled due to Veterans Day, sparing the squad from answering questions regarding his potential departure ahead of an upcoming CONCACAF Nations League quarter-final against Haiti.

Carrick's Struggles at Old Trafford

Carrick took over on a permanent basis during the close-season after guiding the team to a third-place finish as interim boss following the departure of Ruben Amorim in January. However, his squad has suffered a steep decline this term, marred by underwhelming transfer recruitment and friction within the locker room. Carrick previously dropped captain Bruno Fernandes and defender Lisandro Martinez after they voiced public criticisms regarding team tactics and club hierarchy recruitment strategies.