Manchester United have sacked Michael Carrick with immediate effect, paving the way for Mauricio Pochettino to take over as the club’s next head coach.
The dismissal follows a verbal agreement in principle between United and Pochettino, who is expected to leave his role as head coach of the United States national team to take charge at Old Trafford.
Carrick took charge of training on Wednesday and had remained officially in position despite growing uncertainty over his future. However, the club have now moved to end his tenure.
Pochettino is expected to remain in charge of the United States for their two matches against Haiti during the current international break.
Manchester United are understood to be comfortable with the arrangement, with discussions involving US Soccer expected to gather pace over the next 24 hours.
Although United want the Argentine at Old Trafford as soon as possible, the club are mindful of his existing international commitments.
Most of United’s players are expected to return to the club by next Thursday ahead of their Premier League trip to Anfield to face Liverpool on Sunday, November 22.
United are still finalising the details of Pochettino’s appointment with his representatives. Discussions include a reported £7 million buyout payment to US Soccer and negotiations over contracts for his proposed backroom staff.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
Follow us on:
