Manchester United Relegation Threat Could End Pochettino's USMNT Project

Manchester United's looming threat of Premier League relegation could abruptly end Mauricio Pochettino's first venture into international football. With Michael Carrick expected to be sacked following a disastrous start to the season, the current US men's national team head coach has emerged as a primary target to take over at Old Trafford.

A Historic Premier League Struggle

Manchester United are currently enduring their worst opening to a campaign in four decades. The disastrous run of form has left the club at genuine risk of relegation from the Premier League. Consequently, head coach Michael Carrick is widely expected to be sacked as the hierarchy looks to halt their slide down the table.

Disruption to the USMNT Project

A sudden move to Old Trafford would severely disrupt the United States' current managerial project. The USMNT role represents Pochettino's first job in international football. The U.S. Soccer Federation originally hired the manager in 2024, before rehiring him in August.

Pochettino currently earns about $7 million annually in his position with the U.S. However, his contract includes a release clause of approximately $10m. This financial stipulation provides a clear pathway for Manchester United to secure his services should they choose to pay the fee.

Mutual Interest at Old Trafford

The prospect of Pochettino returning to club football appears to be gathering momentum. According to multiple reports on Monday, the manager is "a leading candidate" to replace Carrick.

The Guardian has reported that Pochettino is interested in making the move to Manchester United. Furthermore, the interest between the club and the manager has been characterised as mutual.

While it remains unconfirmed whether Manchester United will officially formalise Carrick's dismissal and trigger the $10m release clause, the mutual interest indicates that Pochettino's time with the USMNT could be cut short.