Manchester United is reportedly preparing to dismiss manager Michael Carrick and is in advanced talks to secure US national team boss Mauricio Pochettino as his replacement, sources revealed this week.

Major British media outlets, including Sky Sports and The Guardian, reported that the Old Trafford hierarchy has reached a verbal agreement in principle with the Argentine tactician. While Carrick’s exit has yet to be officially formalized, negotiations regarding personal terms have reportedly progressed smoothly.

The club's drastic managerial pivot stems from an alarming run of form. United currently languishes in the Premier League relegation zone, having secured a single victory in their opening 10 league fixtures. Across all tournaments, the Red Devils have managed only three wins in 15 matches, spelling a disastrous continuation after Carrick originally stabilized the squad to finish third last season following Ruben Amorim's departure.

To land Pochettino, United will likely have to trigger a release clause embedded in his contract with the United States Soccer Federation (USSF). Pochettino signed an extension in August running through the 2030 World Cup—a comprehensive deal spanning youth development and coaching education. British reports indicate that United must pay a compensation package ranging between 7 million and 7.5 million pounds to buy out his current national team commitments.

The sudden development has thrown the US national team into turmoil. Having guided the Americans to the Round of 16 at the recent North and Central American World Cup, Pochettino was expected to lead them through the upcoming CONCACAF Nations League quarterfinal legs against Haiti. The USSF confirmed that the current squad selection was entirely shaped by Pochettino himself.

Long admired by United's board, Pochettino boasts an extensive European resume, having previously steered Tottenham to a Champions League final alongside stints at Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea. If the transition is finalized swiftly, the 54-year-old manager could potentially make his debut on the United bench during their high-stakes away clash against Liverpool on November 22, immediately following the international break.

[ⓒ Global Economic Times. 무단전재-재배포 금지]