Manchester United could be in for a battle in their rumoured pursuit of Mauricio Pochettino, thanks to the wrath of Real Madrid president Florentino Perez.
Ralf Rangnick’s long-term managerial future at United is in doubt. Players reportedly disagree with Rangnick’s training methods, calling them “old-fashioned”.
In addition, disrespect for the German’s coaching staff, particularly Chris Armas, has worsened the situation. Therefore, change may be on the horizon at Old Trafford.
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Ajax coach Erik Ten Hag has been heavily linked with the Old Trafford job, especially after his side’s impressive season so far.
Other alternatives for the role include Brendan Rodgers. Former Arsenal player and Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson endorsed the potential hiring of the Leicester City manager.
However, for what seems like forever, Manchester United have always wanted Mauricio Pochettino.
Mauricio Pochettino to United?
Pochettino has been linked to the Red Devils ever since his days as Tottenham Hotspur manager. For a long time, the Argentine was the favourite to replace Jose Mourinho, when the latter left United in 2018.
Pochettino seems to be a popular appointment if Man United ever make the move. According to ESPN, he is the manager that the players want. That is an important factor after the reported mixed reception of Ralf Rangnick and his staff.
The Argentine could become available soon, too, as PSG are reportedly looking at replacing Pochettino with Zinedine Zidane.
However, a furious Real Madrid president may thwart United’s reported attempts at luring the Argentinian to Old Trafford.
Furious Florentino may wield the axe
Real Madrid put in a poor performance in their Champions League last 16 first leg fixture at Paris Saint-Germain, losing 1-0. Manager Carlo Ancelotti took the most criticism for his conservative tactics.
According to The Independent, Los Blancos president Florentino Perez was “furious” with the poor display. Ancelotti’s job will reportedly be on the line in the second leg of their Champions League tie. Sacking the Italian would see him leave his second club in under a year after departing Everton last summer.
If this does happen, PSG boss Pochettino is favourite to replace Ancelotti at the Bernabeu.
Of course, all this hinges on the second leg of the Champions League tie between PSG and Real Madrid. If Real overturn the 1-0 first leg deficit, Ancelotti will, seemingly, keep his job. In turn, Man United’s path to Pochettino would be clear. In an ironic sense, the Argentinian himself holds the key to his next move,
If Real get knocked out and the Italian is sacked, United may then have to battle with the Spanish giants – and Florentino Perez – to secure the services of Mauricio Pochettino.
Red Devils fans will therefore hope Real can beat the French side so that they can still get their man.
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