Mauricio Pochettino became visibly emotional as he prepared to leave the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) and begin a new chapter at Manchester United.
The Argentine manager described his departure as the most difficult decision of his managerial career, reflecting on his time with the national team and the challenge of walking away from a project he valued. Pochettino said: “It’s difficult to talk now. I’m a very emotional guy. It’s a very sad decision. It was the most difficult decision of my career,”
His departure comes just months after signing a new contract with the United States Soccer Federation in August 2026, which was expected to keep him in charge of the national team until 2030. However, Manchester United’s interest presented him with an opportunity he ultimately chose to accept.
Pochettino also explained why leaving the national team was particularly difficult. Unlike managers who depart after being dismissed, he was choosing to walk away from a project he genuinely valued. He added: “Usually it’s the opposite! You get sacked… This was difficult, and very fast. It’s not easy to leave. But we are professionals and we are trying to make our dreams come true.”
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Pochettino Begins a New Chapter at Manchester United
Manchester United have appointed Pochettino on a two-and-a-half-year contract, bringing him back to the Premier League after previous managerial spells at Southampton, Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea.
He arrives following the departure of Michael Carrick, with the responsibility of rebuilding a struggling Manchester United side and restoring the club’s competitiveness. His first major challenge is expected to be a difficult away fixture against Liverpool at Anfield on November 22, 2026.
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What Pochettino Leaves Behind with the United States
Pochettino took charge of the USMNT in September 2024 and helped the team develop its identity ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Under his leadership, the United States won its World Cup group and secured a 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32, recording its first knockout-stage victory since 2002. Although his departure brings an unexpected end to his project, his emotional farewell reflects the connection he developed with the players, staff and American supporters.
Before taking charge of Manchester United, Pochettino is expected to complete his final international assignments with the United States against Haiti in the CONCACAF Nations League quarter-finals. For American football, his departure marks the end of an important chapter. For Manchester United, it signals the beginning of a new managerial era. Can Mauricio Pochettino bring Manchester United back to the top of English and European football?
