Newly appointed Manchester United manager, Mauricio Pochettino, has admitted that leaving the United States national team for the Premier League club was the most difficult decision of his career, describing the move as “a very sad decision”.
The 54-year-old Argentine became emotional while speaking to reporters ahead of the United States’ international friendly against Haiti, as he reflected on his departure from the national team.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano shared the footage on X on November 13, capturing Pochettino’s emotional remarks following his appointment at Manchester United.
“It’s difficult to talk now. I’m a very emotional guy. It’s a very sad decision; it’s the most difficult decision of my career,” Pochettino said.
“But we are professionals, and we are trying to make our dreams come true. Yes, I had signed a new deal until 2030 but the Federation know not so many opportunities appear in your life like Manchester United. You can’t turn it down.”
Pochettino had signed a contract extension with the United States Soccer Federation until 2030, but opted to leave after agreeing a two-and-a-half-year deal with Manchester United to replace Michael Carrick.
The former Tottenham Hotspur and Paris Saint-Germain manager is expected to take charge of the English club as it seeks to improve its fortunes in the Premier League.
Pochettino guided Tottenham to the 2019 UEFA Champions League final and has also managed Southampton and Chelsea in England.
His appointment at Manchester United marks a return to the Premier League after his previous spells with the London clubs.
