Man United weigh Pochettino move as Carrick's position hangs by a thread

Manchester United are expected to part ways with manager Michael Carrick within days after a dismal start to the Premier League season left the club in 18th place with just eight points from their opening ten matches.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe is attending an Ineos senior staff meeting in Monaco on Wednesday where Carrick’s future will be discussed. CEO Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox are both expected to present a case for moving on from the manager, according to the Manchester Evening News.

Mauricio Pochettino has emerged as United’s primary managerial target. The 54-year-old Argentine, who previously managed Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea, and Southampton, is currently under contract with the United States men’s national team until 2030. However, his deal is reported to contain a release clause of approximately $10 million (£7.44m), which United are understood to be exploring.

Speculation around Pochettino intensified on Wednesday after the USMNT cancelled all scheduled media obligations. The organisation was quick to clarify that the decision was made in observance of Veterans’ Day and was unrelated to the mounting transfer rumours. The cancellation does, however, mean the US camp will not be required to publicly address questions about their head coach’s future.

Pochettino is currently preparing his side for a two-legged Concacaf Nations League quarter-final against Haiti, with the fixtures scheduled for November 14 and November 18.

Other names linked with the United vacancy include Eddie Howe, Antonio Conte, Julian Nagelsmann, and Gareth Southgate, though Pochettino is widely reported to be the club’s preferred choice. The former Spurs boss is also said to be keen on a return to English football.