Mauricio Pochettino will be confirmed as Manchester United's new manager on Friday, succeeding Michael Carrick. The former Tottenham and Chelsea boss, who recently left his role as head coach of the United States men's national team, had previously been considered by United, but missed out to Jose Mourinho and then Erik ten Hag.
Pochettino inherits a team that has won just one of its opening 10 Premier League matches this season, leaving the club in the relegation zone. Significant changes are expected as he looks to restore United to the top of English football, with several players and staff likely to be affected by his appointment.
Winners under Pochettino
Marcus Rashford is among those who could benefit. Reintegrated into the squad by Carrick this summer, the 28-year-old has struggled, failing to score in eight appearances before a hip injury sidelined him. Pochettino has previously praised Rashford, saying during the 2022 World Cup: "I've always liked him, I knew of his process because I was in England, but I think he's a great player. He just needs the confidence and for himself to believe, to put him at the top level. The quality is there for him."
Luke Shaw, who played under Pochettino at Southampton over a decade ago, may also see a revival. The 31-year-old left-back is in the final year of his contract after a series of injuries, but Pochettino's familiarity with his abilities could give him a chance to prove his fitness and value.
Losers in the reshuffle
Omar Berrada and Jason Wilcox, United's football leadership duo, face an uncertain future. Reports indicate the Glazers pushed for Pochettino, while Wilcox favoured Eddie Howe, and Pochettino is said to 'not answer' to them in the same way as previous managers hired under Ineos. If Pochettino succeeds, they are unlikely to receive credit.
Bruno Fernandes, the club captain, may also be at a crossroads. Pochettino tried to sign him for Tottenham previously, and Fernandes has scope to flourish, but his future is uncertain amid stalled contract talks and a dip in form. Pochettino could build around him or use the 32-year-old to generate transfer funds for defensive reinforcements. Fernandes' recent criticism of United's tactics did not sit well with Carrick, and it would likely not with Pochettino either.
