Pochettino revealed why he accepted Man United job

Mauricio Pochettino has explained why he accepted the opportunity to become Manchester United head coach, describing the chance to manage the Premier League giants as one that was too difficult to turn down

Pochettino, 54 was confirmed as Michael Carrick’s successor at Old Trafford on Friday after agreeing to a two-and-a-half-year contract. The Argentine, had recently signed a new four-year deal with the United States national team but agreed to leave the position after Manchester United triggered a release clause reportedly worth about £7.4m.

Speaking at his first news conference following the announcement, the former Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea manager admitted that leaving the United States was an emotional decision.

“It’s difficult to talk now. I’m a very emotional guy. It’s a very sad decision. But we are professionals and we are trying to make our dreams come true,” he said.

Explaining why he accepted Manchester United’s offer despite recently extending his contract with the United States, Pochettino said the opportunity to manage at Old Trafford was too significant to reject.

“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 said.

Pochettino will complete his departure after overseeing the United States’ two matches against Haiti on November 14 and 18. His appointment ends Manchester United’s search for a new manager following Carrick’s dismissal on Thursday.

The club had endured a difficult start to the campaign, winning just once in their opening 10 Premier League matches and dropping to 18th position. Pochettino’s first match in charge is scheduled to be against Liverpool on November 22.

The Argentine’s appointment also marks the end of Manchester United’s decade-long interest in him, having previously considered him for the managerial position in 2016, 2018, 2022 and 2024.