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Mauricio Pochettino has had talks over Man Utd job

Paris Saint-Germain manager Mauricio Pochettino has become the second candidate to hold talks with Manchester United over the head coach role, according to The Telegraph.

The Red Devils are currently on the search for their next permanent manager. Earlier last week, Ajax’s Erik ten Hag reportedly had his interview with the club’s hierarchy.

It is now reported that Pochettino has also had ‘some talks’ with football director John Murtough over the vacancy. The duo now appear the prime candidates for the position.

Spain’s Luis Enrique has already distanced himself from the job by citing that he won’t consider leaving his position. He plans to remain in La Roja’s dug-out for the World Cup.

Meanwhile, Sevilla boss Julen Lopetegui has today affirmed that he sees his long-term future at the La Liga club, and has ‘no doubt‘ that he would stay at the helm next season.

Hence, it appears a two-horse race for the managerial post at United, but it has been mentioned that there are other clubs interested in appointing Ten Hag and Pochettino.

Our view:

United could have a busy summer ahead with a number of fringe and unsettled players heading for the exit door. They need to make the right signings in the transfer market.

The club’s hierarchy have generally taken the matter into their own hands with summer purchases. It could be the same this time with an approach planned for Tottenham Hotspur’s Harry Kane.

However, they must take some recommendations from the next manager at the helm. The board may ideally want the appointment to be made by May such that there is time for transfer planning.

Both Ten Hag and Pochettino have had impressive managerial careers. Ten Hag has grown his reputation on grooming young players and turning them into potential world beaters at the big stage.

Pochettino, on the other hand, had an impressive stint with Tottenham in the Premier League. During his five-and-a-half years in the dug-out, he guided them to a Champions League final.

However, things have not quite worked out for the 50-year-old at Paris Saint-Germain. Judging by the fan response, Ten Hag does seem the more viable candidate for the head coach position.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com