Mauricio Pochettino impressed in a number of ways from his short spell at Southampton and then Tottenham decided to take the plunge based on this spell. The decision to bring in the Argentine is fast turning out into one of the best Spurs have taken in recent years. At the other end of the scale, Manchester United seem to be going through yet another self-questioning moment has José Mourinho fails to eliminate the position of the club – at least for the time being.
A 4-0 loss against Chelsea clearly demonstrated the scale of work, which is surprising given that the club spent £150 million in the summer. Sir Alex Ferguson would always be remembered in such times and the legendary manager was at the stands at Stamford Bridge to watch his former club being humiliated. Even though Mourinho is only a few months into his four-year contract with the club, such poor form will eventually lead the club into a drastic decision.
There are reports that Sir Alex Ferguson has identified Pochettino as the next United boss. The 44-year-old is into his second season at Spurs, but he already has come close to winning the title and also qualified for the Champions League. The South American has managed to do so without spending lavish sums of money and strengthening only where he has needed to. Unsurprisingly, reports have started linking Pochettino with a move to United even though it is still early days in José Mourinho’s reign.
Former Tottenham chairman Lord Sugar has quickly issued a hands-off approach on Pochettino. Sugar expressed his concern that Pochettino will be one of the main targets for United should they relieve Mourinho of his duties in just a couple of months. The large payoff required to get rid of Mourinho will be a major hindrance, as will be the negative press it will bring to the club. After having been known for sticking with the managers through thick and thin, United have gone through two names in the space of three years.
Sir Alex took Spurs MP to lunch in closed season. I hope they keep their hand off him. It’s the first time for years Spurs see some light https://t.co/HFJ5Qu4Qic
— Lord Sugar (@Lord_Sugar) October 24, 2016
Several of United’s top officials were in attendance for the game against Chelsea. United’s heavy defeat meant that the team continues to experience a poor run of form. There only have moments of happiness in recent weeks – in the Europa League, where back-to-back victories places United as one of the favourites to qualify for the knockout stages from the group. In the league, the they are six points behind table leaders Manchester City despite only winning a single league game in the last five.
In the past, United have shown interest only in Spurs players but times are clearly changing.
