Mauricio Pochettino became emotional during a press conference on Friday as he confirmed he is leaving his role as US men's national team coach to take charge of Manchester United, describing the move as an opportunity too big to refuse.
United announced on Friday morning that Pochettino would replace Michael Carrick, who was sacked as manager. The former Tottenham boss has signed a two-and-a-half-year contract at Old Trafford, keeping him at the club until the summer of 2029.
Emotional farewell to US role
Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Pochettino said he wanted to focus on his current role for the time being and would discuss his new position at United next week. He insisted the decision to leave was difficult.
"It was a really difficult decision, but we need to move forward. A big thank you from my heart," an emotional Pochettino said of his departure.
Asked why he accepted the United job so soon after signing a new deal with the US Soccer Federation, Pochettino said: "They know that it's not too many opportunities that can happen in your career like a side of Manchester United. Of course, when that arrives it is difficult to turn down the situation."
Final US games before United debut
Before starting work at United, Pochettino will lead the US men's national team for two final matches against Haiti in the Concacaf Nations League. The second of those games finishes in the early hours of Wednesday morning (UK time), with Pochettino set to fly to Manchester after that match.
Pochettino's first game in charge of United will be against Liverpool at Anfield on November 22. That will be followed by a trip to Sporting CP in the Champions League and a home clash with Brentford.
Relegation battle at Old Trafford
The Argentine takes charge at Old Trafford with the club sitting in the relegation zone after 10 games of the season.
