According to a report by Football Transfer on Monday, November 9, 2026, Mauricio Pochettino has unexpectedly become one of the leading names being considered for the Manchester United managerial position as the club continues to assess its options amid uncertainty over Michael Carrick's future.

Carrick has recently experienced some encouraging results, particularly after Manchester United produced comeback victories against Roma and Aston Villa. Those performances have offered him some breathing space, but they have not completely addressed the concerns surrounding the team's overall performance this season.

Manchester United's Premier League form remains a significant source of concern. The club have recorded only one victory from their first ten league fixtures, leaving them in the relegation zone and increasing pressure on the current manager.

The situation became more difficult for Carrick following United's disappointing 3-0 home loss to Bournemouth in October. Although the former midfielder retained his position after that setback, the club's inconsistent performances have continued to raise questions about his long-term future.

Several managers have previously been mentioned as possible successors should United decide to make a change. Eddie Howe, who previously managed Newcastle United, and Germany national team coach Julian Nagelsmann were among the prominent candidates linked with the position.

However, Mauricio Pochettino has now attracted fresh attention, with bookmakers reportedly adjusting their expectations regarding the next Manchester United manager. The Argentine has moved into joint-favourite status alongside Howe following a considerable movement in his appointment odds.

Pochettino's connection with English football is one of the reasons his name has gained attention. His time at Tottenham Hotspur remains one of the most memorable periods of his managerial career, having helped the club challenge for major honours during his five-year spell.

Under his leadership, Tottenham finished second in the Premier League and reached the Champions League final in 2019. Although they eventually lost the final, his achievements established him as one of the prominent managers in English football at the time.

His subsequent appointments at Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea, however, brought different experiences. While he enjoyed success in France, his time at Chelsea was less impressive, with the club eventually parting ways with him.

Pochettino currently oversees the United States national team, having been appointed in 2024. He guided the Americans into the knockout rounds of the 2026 World Cup, but their journey ended after a 4-1 defeat against Belgium.

His present contract also represents a potential complication for Manchester United. The 54-year-old recently extended his agreement with the United States until the 2030 World Cup, meaning any attempt to bring him to Old Trafford could require complicated negotiations.

Despite these circumstances, the possibility of Pochettino becoming Manchester United's next manager has returned to the spotlight. His previous Premier League experience and history of competing in European competitions could make him an interesting name in the club's ongoing search.

Meanwhile, Carrick remains under pressure to improve Manchester United's position in the league. His ability to produce more consistent performances and collect important points could prove decisive in determining whether the club continues with him or begins a search for another permanent manager.