Manchester United ends pursuit of Mauricio Pochettino
Manchester United have formally stopped their search of Mauricio Pochettino as a managerial candidate, clearing the Argentine’s name from their shortlist following long internal deliberations. This decision comes amid rising concerns over Erik ten Hag’s future at Old Trafford.
Although a disappointing season in both the Premier League and the Champions League, United’s FA Cup success gave a late-season boost, complicating the decision-making process for Ten Hag.
There had been speculation that Ten Hag would be fired regardless of the FA Cup result, but the club’s administration is still deliberating.
Initially, a slew of prominent managers were linked to the potential vacancy, including Gareth Southgate, Roberto De Zerbi, Zinedine Zidane, Kieran McKenna, and Thomas Tuchel.
Pochettino, who recently parted ways with Chelsea, was also heavily considered. However, according to The Times, the 52-year-old former Tottenham and PSG manager is no longer in the running.
Pochettino had been on INEOS’ shortlist and engaged in discussions with United officials at the season’s close. Despite a previous interview for the role in 2022, when Ten Hag was appointed, Pochettino is expected to be passed over once again.
Thomas Tuchel has also stepped out of the race, opting for a break after a disappointing season with Bayern Munich. Meanwhile, Kieran McKenna has effectively removed himself from contention by signing a four-year contract extension with Ipswich.
Pochettino, keen to return to top-tier management, expressed his readiness to entertain new offers. “I have full energy and think we Chelsea finished really well,” he remarked. “We are open to football and will see what happens.”
As United’s leadership continues their review, fans eagerly await clarity on the club’s managerial direction.
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