Difficult To Turn Down – Pochettino Breaks Silence After Taking Over At Manchester United

Manchester United have appointed Argentine tactician Mauricio Pochettino as their new head coach on a two-and-a-half-year contract following the departure of Michael Carrick.

According to Bush Radio Academy, the Premier League club confirmed Pochettino’s appointment on November 13, after parting ways with Carrick on Thursday, November 12. The club reportedly activated a release clause worth £7.5 million to secure the 54-year-old manager’s services.

Pochettino, who recently signed a four-year contract extension with the United States national team, admitted that leaving the international job was an emotional decision. However, he explained that the opportunity to manage a club of Manchester United’s stature was too significant to turn down.

Speaking during his first press conference as United manager, the former Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea coach described his departure from the United States role as difficult.

“It’s difficult to talk now,” he said. “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.”

Explaining his decision to accept Manchester United’s offer, Pochettino said opportunities to manage a club with such a rich history and reputation do not come around frequently in a coach’s career.

“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,” he said.

“When it arrives, it’s difficult to turn down.”

The Argentine is expected to complete his departure from the United States national team after overseeing its two matches against Haiti on November 14 and 18.

His appointment comes after Manchester United endured a disappointing start to their Premier League campaign, recording just one victory in their opening 10 matches and dropping to 18th position on the table.

Pochettino is expected to take charge of his first match against Liverpool on November 22. His arrival also marks the end of Manchester United’s decade-long interest in the coach, having previously considered him for the managerial position in 2016, 2018, 2022 and 2024.

Meanwhile, Carrick has sent an emotional farewell message to Manchester United supporters, describing his time as manager of the club he loves as a tremendous privilege.

The former United midfielder expressed gratitude to the fans for their support despite the team’s recent poor results. He also praised the club’s history, identity, values and traditions, while appreciating the contributions of his coaching staff, players and other employees.

“I’ve had the immense privilege of leading Manchester United, the football club that I love,” Carrick wrote.

“There are very few who get to live that and feel it, and for that I’m incredibly grateful.”

Acknowledging the club’s recent struggles, Carrick said supporters continued to show him affection and encouragement during a difficult period.

“I know we’ve not had the results lately, but you’ve shown me nothing but love and support in times when the easiest thing, and what most end up doing, would be to turn the other way.”

He also wished the team success under its new manager, reaffirming that his connection with Manchester United would remain unchanged despite his departure.

“I want nothing but success for Manchester United. This club has been such a big part of my life and that will never change.”

“I’ll be right there with you from now on, watching from the sidelines, cheering the lads on.”