Pochettino Poised to Take Over at Manchester United as Carrick's Future Hangs in Balance

Manchester United is inching closer to securing Mauricio Pochettino as their next head coach, contingent on the expected dismissal of Michael Carrick. This recommendation comes from Jason Wilcox, the director of football, and chief executive Omar Berrada, who are set to relay their thoughts to Sir Jim Ratcliffe. Pochettino currently helms the US men's national team but has expressed a desire to take the United job, should Carrick be let go. With the team struggling, there's a palpable feeling among players that a change is imminent, and many are anticipating Pochettino will step into the role. In Monaco, Wilcox and Berrada will meet with Ratcliffe, who oversees United's sporting decisions. The expectation is that Carrick's dismissal will be approved during this meeting, paving the way for an official announcement shortly thereafter. Carrick’s record this season has been dismal, leaving United languishing in the relegation zone with just one league win to his name since August. The club's early exit from the Carabao Cup at the hands of Brighton has only intensified calls for change. The upcoming United board meeting will see the involvement of at least one of the six Glazer siblings, who are the majority stakeholders. There’s a sense of urgency surrounding Carrick's situation, and those close to him believe a decision is on the horizon. Pochettino's contract includes a release clause of around $10 million (£7.5 million), but the cost could rise if he chooses to bring his trusted assistant, Jesús Pérez, along with him, whom he has worked with for over 16 years. Meanwhile, Pochettino is preparing for his duties with the US team, as they gear up for Concacaf Nations League matches against Haiti in Miami and Cincinnati this week. These fixtures mark the beginning of their journey in the 2030 World Cup qualifying campaign.