The United States men's national team have cancelled their scheduled media access day, as reports indicate head coach Mauricio Pochettino has reached a verbal agreement to become Manchester United manager.
It has been widely reported that a framework is in place for United to appoint Pochettino should current head coach Michael Carrick, as expected, be relieved of his duties. The club sit in the Premier League relegation zone after their worst start to a season since 1986.
Contract talks and buyout clause
Pochettino is understood to be interested in the Old Trafford post. According to The Athletic, his representatives spent Tuesday discussing personal terms with the club, with no major obstacles expected and a final agreement expected.
US Soccer confirmed the planned media access with players scheduled for Wednesday had been cancelled in observance of Veterans Day, removing the possibility of the squad being asked to comment on the Argentine's potential exit.
Pochettino is due to address reporters on Friday in a pre-match press conference to preview USA's CONCACAF Nations League quarter-final first leg against Haiti. Reports state there is a buyout clause in Pochettino's USMNT contract worth $10million (£7.44m) that United can trigger.
Return to England
The 54-year-old has not managed in the Premier League since a short spell with Chelsea during the 2023-24 season, though he has previously teased a return to England.
“I miss the football scene in England. I love the country, its culture, the football culture,” he said in an interview with L'Equipe. “For anyone with a competitive spirit who wants to measure themselves against others and test their limits, it's the ideal place. Here, you have to give your best constantly.”
If Pochettino is appointed by United within the next few days, his first game in charge will be against Liverpool at Anfield a week on Sunday.
