Mauricio Pochettino interested in leaving USMNT job for Manchester United

Key Points:

• Mauricio Pochettino, US men’s national team head coach, is reportedly interested in managing Manchester United, with mutual interest from the club amid their poor season start and impending sacking of Michael Carrick.
• Pochettino’s contract includes a release clause around $10 million, which could increase if Manchester United retains his long-term coaching staff, including assistant Jesús Pérez.
• Despite guiding the USMNT to a last-16 finish in the 2026 World Cup and committing to a contract through 2030 focused on youth development, Pochettino has expressed a desire to return to the Premier League, citing his affinity for UK football culture and club-level coaching.
• US Soccer has contingency plans for Pochettino’s potential departure, with domestic candidates like U-23 coach Steve Cherundolo and Nashville SC’s BJ Callaghan considered possible successors.
• It is unlikely Pochettino would leave Manchester United without his trusted coaching team, especially his longtime assistant Jesús Pérez, who has worked with him throughout his managerial career.