Mauricio Pochettino appointment questioned as Manchester United face criticism over Carrick

Manchester United's pursuit of Mauricio Pochettino has been questioned by chief correspondent Kaveh Solhekol, who believes the club should consider whether the former Tottenham and Chelsea manager is the right choice.

Solhekol described Pochettino as a very good coach but argued that other available candidates, including Eddie Howe and Antonio Conte, have stronger trophy records in English football.

He also questioned why United are considering paying around £7m to release Pochettino from his United States national team contract when the Argentine was available without compensation during the summer.

The journalist was particularly critical of the way the club are handling Michael Carrick's uncertain future, describing the situation as a poor way to treat someone who has a strong connection with United.

Solhekol also raised wider concerns about the club's leadership, questioning who is driving the managerial decision and whether Sir Jim Ratcliffe, INEOS, Omar Berrada and Jason Wilcox are aligned.

If Carrick is dismissed and Pochettino appointed, the Argentine would become United's fourth manager in three seasons under Ratcliffe's football leadership.

Solhekol argued that this highlights a deeper structural problem at Old Trafford, rather than simply an issue with the person in the dugout.