New Manchester United boss Mauricio Pochettino has admitted that the chance to manage the Old Trafford club was a rare career opportunity he could not afford to miss.
The Argentine tactician was unveiled as the club’s new head coach on Friday, taking over from Michael Carrick on a two-and-a-half-year contract.
His move comes despite recently agreeing to extend his stay with the United States national team for another four years. Manchester United reportedly secured his release by activating a £7.4m clause in his contract.
Speaking during his first media appearance as United manager, the 54-year-old acknowledged the emotional difficulty of walking away from his international assignment.
“It’s difficult to talk now,” he said. “I’m a very emotional guy. It’s a very sad decision.
“But we are professionals and we are trying to make our dreams come true.”
Pochettino explained that Manchester United’s reputation and status in world football played a major role in convincing him to accept the offer, despite his recent commitment to the United States.
“I never said I wanted to go back but they know there aren’t too many opportunities that happen in your career like Manchester United,” he said.
“When it arrives, it’s difficult to turn down.”
Before taking up his new position, Pochettino will oversee the United States in their remaining international fixtures against Haiti on November 14 and 18.
His appointment follows United’s decision to part ways with Carrick on Thursday after a disappointing opening to the Premier League campaign.
The Red Devils have managed just one win in their first 10 league matches, leaving them in the relegation zone in 18th place.
Pochettino faces an immediate challenge as he prepares for his first game against arch-rivals Liverpool on November 22.
The appointment also ends a lengthy pursuit by Manchester United, who had previously explored the possibility of bringing the former Tottenham, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain manager to Old Trafford in 2016, 2018, 2022 and 2024.
