Pochettino's Manchester United Link Is the Result of the US's Big Move

Mauricio Pochettino's name has frequently been linked with major clubs since he took charge of the US Men's National Team in New York two years ago. The Argentine coach has openly said he wants to return to the Premier League. The possibility of talks with Milan also came up before the World Cup. Most recently, reports from England say Pochettino is one of the strongest candidates for the head coach position at Manchester United. The job is not vacant yet, since the club has not yet parted ways with Michael Carrick.

Defender Antonee Robinson said the news surprised the team, just as it did everyone else. Robinson noted that it is common for big clubs to start looking for candidates once they lose their head coach. In his view, Pochettino being linked with such names shows that the team is working with a top-level coach. Robinson added that this has never affected the squad's work.

CEO J.T. Batson recalled that other clubs were also interested in Pochettino during their first meetings. Batson said Pochettino wants to be here and believes in the growth of American soccer. According to the report, Pochettino's new contract includes a release clause of 10 million dollars. Batson also revealed that the federation reviews its contingency plans for all teams every month.

Who the federation would bring in if Pochettino leaves is also being discussed. Former Manchester City head coach Pep Guardiola is the most recognized name on the market, although his future plans are reported to be unclear. There are also views that domestic candidates could come to the fore. The team's next close match is against Haiti, a quarterfinal of the CONCACAF Nations League.