Headline: Mauricio Pochettino Transitioning from US Soccer to Manchester United
Mauricio Pochettino choked back tears during his first press conference after being appointed as the successor to Michael Carrick at Manchester United.
Pochettino will depart his role as manager of the United States national team following the current international break. He is set to officially join Manchester United on November 18, just days after the club decided to replace Carrick, who was dismissed on Thursday.
After signing a four-year extension during the summer, which was intended to keep him with the US team until the 2030 World Cup, Manchester United activated his release clause. The club will pay US Soccer an initial compensation fee of $7 million (£5.3 million).
When asked about his decision to leave the USA for Manchester United, despite earlier commitments, Pochettino remarked, “It’s obvious. I never said I wanted to go back but they know there aren’t too many opportunities that happen in your career like Manchester United. When it arrives, it’s difficult to turn down.”
He elaborated on the commitment made with US Soccer during the extension, highlighting it was made to support the federation should circumstances change.
Pochettino stated that initial contact from United occurred on Sunday afternoon, expressing that he remained open and honest with US Soccer throughout the negotiations. However, he chose not to dwell extensively on his move to United, calling it “the most difficult decision of my career,” instead opting to focus on his current responsibilities with the USA.
As he prepares for two upcoming Concacaf Nations League matches against Haiti, Pochettino will remain in charge of the US team, with an away fixture on November 14 and a home match in Cincinnati on November 18.
After concluding his duties with the national team, Pochettino will report to training at Carrington, ahead of his first Premier League match against Liverpool on November 22. He justified his decision to finish the international break with the US team, emphasizing respect for his players and staff.
“Before we are professionals, we are people,” Pochettino stated. “The emotional link between us shows the commitment and respect. Even if we make decisions that may not be the best for everyone, we have to honor the feelings of our players and staff during this transition. All matches are crucial, and we need to remain positive and optimistic as we approach the next games.”
