Neville urges Pochettino to secure backing before taking United job

Manchester United have dismissed head coach Michael Carrick after a poor start left the club third from bottom in the Premier League. The club said it intends to appoint a permanent successor as soon as possible, and Pochettino is expected to take the role. He currently manages the United States national team, which he has led since September 2024; he signed a new contract in August. United would need to pay £10.5 million in compensation to release him and his coaching staff.

Former United defender Gary Neville says Pochettino should secure firm commitments from the club’s co-owners, INEOS, before accepting the job. Neville’s three priorities are a protective payout clause if he is sacked, two defenders brought in during the January transfer window, and a guaranteed minimum transfer budget next summer.

Neville criticized the defenders Carrick fielded in his final match, naming Diogo Dalot, Noussair Mazraoui, Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven. He argued that the back four showed how urgently United need reinforcements.

Harry Kane, who played under Pochettino at Tottenham, said the coach had a major role in his development and had helped him both on and off the pitch. The Bayern Munich striker described Pochettino as an excellent coach and manager, while saying the appointment remained to be seen.

Carrick returned to United in January and led the team to third place last season, winning 12 of the final 17 league matches. The club said his leadership and achievements would be remembered fondly, despite concluding that a change was needed to meet its ambitions.