Mauricio Pochettino is top Man United contender after Sir Alex backing – sources
Mauricio Pochettino has emerged as a top contender to become the next Manchester United manager if they decide to sack Erik ten Hag.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed Pochettino has a close relationship with Sir Alex Ferguson and he could back the Argentine to take over at Old Trafford next season.
Football Insider revealed on 22 May the 52-year-old has emerged as a “serious and very interesting” option for Man United chiefs after he left Chelsea by mutual consent earlier this week.
O’Rourke suggested Ipswich Town boss Kieran McKenna and former Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi are also in contention to take the reins at Old Trafford.
Football Insider revealed earlier this month Ten Hag is expected to be sacked by the Red Devils even if his side beat Manchester City in the upcoming FA Cup final.
Mauricio Pochettino could replace Erik ten Hag as Man United manager
Pochettino has been a long-term target for Man United after previously making attempts to bring him to the club.
The Argentine endured a challenging season with Chelsea after making the move to Stamford Bridge last May, with the club finishing in sixth place and losing out in the Carabao Cup final to Liverpool.
Pochettino has amassed a 48.7 per cent win rate during his 15-year spell as a manager, which has seen him take charge of almost 300 games in the Premier League with Southampton, Tottenham and Chelsea.
O’Rourke revealed the door has now opened up more for Man United to appoint a new manager after there were previously fears about a lack of quality candidates being available.
The Red Devils are believed to have made contact with McKenna’s representatives after Football Insider first revealed their interest in the club’s former coach at the start of April.
De Zerbi, meanwhile, is keen to remain in the Premier League after leaving Brighton at the end of the season and has been a name under consideration for some time at Old Trafford.
Football Insider revealed last month the Italian has plenty of admirers in the Man United boardroom following his work at the Amex Stadium.
In other news, the cost of sacking Ten Hag has been revealed.
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