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Pochettino Named Manchester United Head Coach
United trigger a release clause to pry the USMNT boss away, just three months after he signed an extension through the 2030 World Cup.
Mauricio Pochettino was officially named Manchester United’s new head coach on Friday, November 13, 2026, stepping down from his role with the U.S. Men’s National Team just three months after signing a contract extension through the 2030 World Cup. Manchester United triggered a release clause of roughly $10 million (£7.4m–£7.5m) to buy Pochettino out of his U.S. Soccer deal, signing him to a two-and-a-half-year contract running through June 2029.
The Deal at a Glance
Key Details & Timeline
Why United Made the Move
Manchester United fired manager Michael Carrick after winning just one of their opening 10 Premier League matches (1W–5D–4L). The club sits 18th in the table — inside the relegation zone — marking their worst domestic start in 40 years.
An Emotional Farewell
Addressing reporters alongside U.S. Soccer CEO JT Batson and President Cindy Parlow Cone, an emotional Pochettino broke down in tears. He called leaving the USMNT “one of the most difficult decisions of my career,” explaining that opportunities to manage a club of Manchester United’s stature rarely come along.
Final USMNT Matches
Pochettino and his backroom staff, including longtime assistant Jesus Perez, will remain on the touchline for the USMNT’s CONCACAF Nations League quarterfinal series against Haiti.
Carrington Debut
He officially begins his duties at United’s Carrington training ground.
First Match: At Liverpool
His first match in charge is a high-profile Premier League clash away against rivals Liverpool at Anfield.
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Pochettino’s USMNT Tenure & What’s Next
Hired in September 2024, Pochettino leaves with a 21–12–2 record across 35 matches.
He led the USMNT to the Round of 16 on home soil, earning three tournament victories — the most by any U.S. men’s coach in a single World Cup.
He integrated young prospects such as Cavan Sullivan and Julian Hall.
U-23 coach Steve Cherundolo will oversee the USMNT’s December training camp.
CEO JT Batson, COO Dan Helfrich, USWNT head coach Emma Hayes and Oguchi Onyewu will lead U.S. Soccer’s search.
A New Era at Old Trafford
Jerseys, scarves, caps and more for every Manchester United supporter.
Full coverage at BBC Sport and U.S. Soccer; also reported by ESPN and USA Today. Prices shown are starting prices.