Manchester United fans are advocating for Mauricio Pochettino to replace Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford following the surprising announcement of Pochettino’s departure from Chelsea after just one season.
Chelsea’s 2023-24 season was challenging, marred by numerous injuries and a decline in league standings.
Despite a late surge that saw them finish sixth after winning their last five league matches, Pochettino faced immense pressure. Critics questioned why a team that spent £1 billion on new signings underperformed.
Impressed by Pochettino’s late-season success with Chelsea, Manchester United fans took to social media to urge Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his team to hire the newly available coach.
Comments on X (formerly Twitter) included sentiments like “United should appoint Poch if they know what’s good for them,” and “Man United sack ETH now and get Poch.” Fans emphasized that Pochettino, who was once a target for United, could be a valuable addition.
In 2022, Pochettino was reportedly on Manchester United’s shortlist to replace caretaker manager Michael Carrick after interim manager Ralf Rangnick’s departure.
However, Pochettino declined, hoping to succeed Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid. Instead, he ended up at Chelsea, replacing Graham Potter after Frank Lampard’s interim stint.
Following an internal review at Chelsea, led by sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart, and co-controlling owner Behdad Eghbali, it was decided that Pochettino would part ways with the club after a 2-1 win over Bournemouth.
Winstanley and Stewart expressed their gratitude for Pochettino’s service and welcomed him back to Stamford Bridge anytime.
Pochettino also thanked Chelsea’s ownership and sporting directors, expressing optimism for the club’s future in both the Premier League and Europe.
Meanwhile, Erik ten Hag’s future at Manchester United is uncertain after a disappointing season, with the team potentially missing out on European football for the first time since the 1989-90 season.
Although Ratcliffe is not expected to make any changes before the FA Cup final against Manchester City, there is speculation that United might pursue a new direction next season.
Potential candidates mentioned include Thomas Tuchel, Gareth Southgate, and Ipswich boss Kieran McKenna.
The calls for Pochettino come amid Manchester United’s struggles, as fans believe he could be the right fit to revive the club’s fortunes.
With his impressive track record and recent success at Chelsea, many feel Pochettino could bring the stability and performance needed to compete at the highest levels once again.
