Mauricio Pochettino hopes to hold discussions with Sir Alex Ferguson next week when he begins his tenure at Manchester United. United confirmed on Thursday that Pochettino had been handed a two-and-a-half-year deal, though it was determined he would not take up his duties until he served his final two matches as United States' head coach.
USA Farewell Before United Start
United respected Pochettino's obligations with the USA, and it was determined he could fulfil their double-header against Haiti. The Americans won 6-0 in the first leg on Saturday night. The 54-year-old addressed his switch to United during the post-match press conference.
"It's always difficult to say goodbye, but life is like this," Pochettino said. "Always, you have new challenges, and, of course, I've always followed my heart and my dreams."
"It's sad, but at the same time, we're in the place that we wanted to be (with the USA). I think it was really tough during the two years, but I think we achieved something that is difficult to measure ... to put a value on. But I think it's going to be very good for soccer here in the future."
Admiration for Ferguson
Pochettino was questioned whether he had spoken with United's iconic former boss Ferguson since accepting the position. "Not yet, but for sure I will have the opportunity after Tuesday," he said.
"I said many years ago and always I say the same – for me, Sir Alex Ferguson represents everything that I admire from a coach, a head coach, a man, a manager and I think he represents my values. I really admire him."
"For sure, from Tuesday, we will have the possibility to talk – if I will have time because it's going to be very intense. But if there's the possibility to talk, then of course I will do that."
First Fixture Against Liverpool
Pochettino initially met Ferguson for dinner in 2016, and the two have kept in contact ever since. Ferguson remains a frequent attendee at United fixtures and has demonstrated backing for every manager since stepping down.
United were drawn to Pochettino because they consider his character, managerial credentials and approach well-suited to the club. United insiders have praised Pochettino's 'outstanding record' of nurturing individual players and his history of establishing robust team environments, which they regard as making him the perfect candidate to guide the squad forward.
He will begin duties at Carrington on Wednesday, affording him four days to prepare for his first fixture in charge against bitter rivals Liverpool at Anfield.
