In 2022, following the unsuccessful tenure of Ralf Rangnick, Manchester United’s search for a new full-time manager became essentially a contest between two leading candidates.
On one side was Erik ten Hag, who had just completed an impressive Champions League run with Ajax. Competing against him was Mauricio Pochettino.
During this period, Manchester United icon Gary Neville was quick to express his strong belief in the potential of one particular candidate.
After Rangnick’s exit, Neville told Sky Sports that Pochettino’s experience in the Premier League, combined with his favored footballing philosophy, made him an ideal choice for the prestigious Old Trafford position.
Fast forward two years, while Erik ten Hag remains firmly in his role, Pochettino’s career has veered into an unexpected and contrasting trajectory.
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Manchester United opted for Erik ten Hag over Mauricio Pochettino
Discussing Pochettino’s surprising appointment as head coach of the American national team, Neville noted, “I believe an international coach can significantly impact a team, and he can tremendously influence the group’s culture and style of play…”
“The concepts that the American players are going to learn… For many of them, he will be the finest coach they have ever had the chance to work with. Most won’t have been under a coach nearly as capable as him.
“He is among the best in Europe!”
Back in 2019, Pochettino left Tottenham Hotspur as a coach with incredible potential ahead of him.
He was, after all, the mastermind who transformed perennial underachievers into Champions League finalists and serious Premier League contenders, despite the fact that they never quite managed to seize the title.
After his departure from Spurs, Pochettino faced challenges in establishing his style with a difficult Paris Saint-Germain team – similar to Unai Emery’s struggles before him – and later left Chelsea under contentious conditions, despite securing a respectable sixth-place finish in the 2023/24 season.
“He has something to prove,” Neville commented, a devoted fan of Pochettino since his early days at Southampton. “Honestly, I fell in love with this guy 10 or 12 years ago,”
“During my first Monday Night Football, featuring a Southampton game, I wondered; ‘Who is Mauricio Pochettino?’ Within just two weeks, I was amazed; ‘What is this?’.
“The style of football they began playing was extraordinary. Then he moved to Tottenham. I often remarked that if you had a Jurgen Klopp match or a Mauricio Pochettino match for three or four years in the Premier League, you were guaranteed an exciting game.
Former Chelsea manager to lead 2026 World Cup campaign
“They played the game the way I always thought it should be played. Very high intensity, pushing forward, and exciting football.”
Neville himself admitted that he would have welcomed the Argentine to Old Trafford enthusiastically if Ineos had decided to make a change this summer instead of sticking with Ten Hag.
Pochettino’s name resurfaced just a few months ago.
Although the FA Cup and EFL Cup winner has yet to win over all skeptics regarding his suitability to lead United back to the top – The Guardian mentions ongoing doubts about his fit within the club – impressive back-to-back wins against Southampton and Barnsley have begun to alleviate some of that pressure.
“I wanted (Pochettino) to be the manager of Manchester United,” Neville confessed. “When it came down to Ten Hag or Pochettino, I was vocal about it; ‘Man United should choose Pochettino’.
“He was indeed a candidate for the position over the summer when Erik ten Hag was under scrutiny. Once again, I would have loved him to lead the club I love.”
“I hold him in the highest regard.”
Pochettino will officially take the reins of the USA team for the first time during the upcoming October international break.
A contract extending until 2026 will see the former Paris Saint-Germain defender oversee their World Cup journey on home soil.
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From Manchester United Aspirations to U.S. National Team Leadership: The Journey of Mauricio Pochettino
Early Aspirations and Career Beginnings
Mauricio Pochettino, born on March 2, 1972, in Murphy, Argentina, has long been a prominent figure in the football world. His journey began as a player in the Argentine league, where he showcased his talent as a defender. Pochettino’s passion for the game was evident from an early age, which set the stage for his future endeavors.
Playing Career: A Solid Foundation
Pochettino’s playing career spanned over a decade, primarily at Newell’s Old Boys and subsequently at Paris Saint-Germain. His time at PSG, where he played from 2001 to 2003, offered him invaluable experience in European football, which would later influence his coaching philosophy. Some key moments in Pochettino’s playing career include:
- Making his professional debut at age 19.
- Winning the Argentine Primera División.
- Transitioning to European football with a move to France.
The Transition to Coaching
After retiring in 2006, Pochettino quickly transitioned into coaching, starting with the youth team at Newell’s Old Boys. His ability to connect with players and his tactical knowledge earned him a promotion to the first team in 2012. His coaching philosophy emphasized youth development and attacking football, setting the tone for his future roles.
Rise to Prominence: Southampton and Tottenham Hotspur
In 2013, Pochettino took the reins at Southampton, where he achieved remarkable success. He guided the team to an 8th place finish in the Premier League, marking Southampton’s best league performance in over a decade. This achievement caught the attention of larger clubs, leading to his appointment at Tottenham Hotspur in 2014.
Key Achievements at Tottenham
Pochettino’s tenure at Tottenham was marked by several key achievements:
- 2015-2016 Premier League Runner-Up: Under his leadership, Tottenham finished second, showcasing their potential as title contenders.
- UEFA Champions League Finalist 2019: Pochettino led Spurs to their first-ever Champions League final, a historic moment for the club.
- Development of Young Talent: He was instrumental in nurturing players such as Harry Kane, Dele Alli, and Heung-min Son.
Mauricio Pochettino’s Playing Style and Tactical Philosophy
Pochettino is renowned for his high-pressing game and emphasis on fluid attacking football. His ability to adapt tactics based on opponent strengths and weaknesses is a hallmark of his coaching style. Key elements of his philosophy include:
| Key Tactical Elements | Description |
|---|---|
| Pressing Game | Pochettino emphasizes winning the ball back quickly after losing possession. |
| Fluid Attack | Encourages players to interchange positions and support offensive plays. |
| Youth Development | Focuses on integrating young talents into the first team. |
Challenges at Tottenham and Departure
Despite his success, Pochettino faced challenges at Tottenham, particularly in securing silverware. After a series of disappointing results in the 2019-2020 season, he parted ways with the club in November 2019. His departure marked the end of an era, but his impact on the club’s culture and performance was undeniable.
Return to Management: Paris Saint-Germain
Pochettino’s next chapter took him to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in January 2021. With a star-studded lineup featuring Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Kylian Mbappé, expectations were high. While he secured a Coupe de France title, his tenure was marred by inconsistency in the league and an early Champions League exit. His philosophy was tested as he adapted to managing top-tier international talents.
Key Takeaways from His Time at PSG
- Struggled to integrate star players into a cohesive unit.
- Faced criticism for tactical decisions in crucial matches.
- Ultimately parted ways with the club in July 2022.
Transition to the U.S. National Team Leadership
In a surprising yet strategic move, Pochettino was appointed head coach of the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) in early 2023. This role marked a new chapter in his career, allowing him to apply his extensive experience to develop American football talent.
Goals for the U.S. National Team
Pochettino’s vision for the USMNT includes:
- Strengthening Youth Programs: Focus on grassroots development to build a solid foundation for the future.
- Competitive Style of Play: Implementing a high-pressing, attacking style akin to his club methods.
- International Success: Aiming to elevate the U.S. in global tournaments, particularly the World Cup.
Benefits of Pochettino’s Leadership
Mauricio Pochettino’s appointment brings several advantages to the USMNT:
- Experience in Elite Football: Pochettino’s background in managing top clubs provides valuable insights.
- Focus on Player Development: His proven record of nurturing young talent aligns perfectly with the U.S. soccer landscape.
- Tactical Acumen: His innovative tactics can rejuvenate the national team’s approach to international play.
Case Studies: Success Stories Under Pochettino
Pochettino’s tenure at Southampton and Tottenham serves as case studies of transformative coaching.
Southampton: A New Era
At Southampton, Pochettino turned mid-table mediocrity into a competitive side, exemplified by their remarkable performances against top teams.
Tottenham: A European Power
He led Tottenham to their highest-ever Premier League finish and a Champions League final, proving his ability to compete at the highest levels.
First-Hand Experience: Voices from Players
Many players have spoken about the impact of Pochettino’s coaching style. Here are a few testimonials:
- Harry Kane: “Pochettino taught us to believe in ourselves and play with freedom.”
- Dele Alli: “He transformed my game, pushing me to new heights.”
- Kylian Mbappé: “Working with Pochettino was a game-changer for my career at PSG.”
Conclusion
Mauricio Pochettino’s journey from aspiring player to leading the U.S. National Team is characterized by resilience, innovative tactics, and a commitment to player development. His leadership promises a bright future for American soccer.
