David Ornstein: INEOS were “underwhelmed” with elite manager before baffling U-turn that will cost United a bomb

Manchester United are reportedly considering appointing Mauricio Pochettino to replace interim manager Michael Carrick, despite INEOS previously being underwhelmed by the Argentine tactician. According to reporting cited by David Ornstein, United leaders previously interviewed Pochettino in 2024 but questioned his hunger and work rate, favoring other candidates before initially retaining Erik ten Hag.

The Peoples Person highlights that pivoting to Pochettino now will prove costly compared to the previous summer when he was available on a free transfer. Manchester United would face a release clause of approximately £7.5 million (around $10 million) to buy him out of his USMNT contract, alongside additional staff fees and compensation for dismissing Carrick.