How Man Utd might look with Mauricio Pochettino, four new players, and their star striker up front
Mauricio Pochettino is getting close to becoming the new Manchester United head coach, taking over from Michael Carrick at Old Trafford. So, what might his United team look like?
The Argentine coach has reached a verbal deal with United, who now need to pay the $10 million (£7.4m) compensation fee in his contract with the US men’s national team.
This will be Pochettino’s fourth Premier League club after managing Southampton, Tottenham, and Chelsea. That means United’s players will already have some idea of his style and approach. But who will be part of his new team, and who might he bring in? Using lineup-builder, here’s a guess at what his starting XI could look like next season:
Starting with the goalkeeper, Senne Lammens had a solid spot in the team at the end of last season. However, a shaky start to the 2026/27 season, including conceding two goals in a 4-4 draw with Aston Villa, has raised some doubts. Still, at just 24, Pochettino will likely back him to find his best form and stay as United’s number one for years.
The rest of the lineup will depend on Pochettino’s chosen system. He often uses a 4-2-3-1 formation at his previous clubs and with the USMNT, which becomes a 3-2-2-3 shape when attacking. This often means full-backs move into midfield—a move that could be tricky with United’s current squad.
One player Pochettino might be interested in is Villarreal’s Alex Freeman, who he recently debuted with the USMNT. The 22-year-old right-back is highly rated in La Liga, stands 6ft 2in, is quick, and can also play in the middle if needed.
In central defense, Pochettino may give Leny Yoro a chance there after moving him to right-back under Carrick. United are expected to sign Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite, who could replace Harry Maguire. Maguire might stay for another year as backup, but Lisandro Martinez’s contract is up soon, and it’s uncertain if Pochettino will keep him.
For left-back, Pochettino might push to sign Newcastle’s Lewis Hall after missing out in the summer, since he tends to trust young English players. However, the £85 million asking price could be a problem. If that deal fails, Antonee Robinson from Fulham and the USMNT, known as a reliable Premier League left-back, could be a solid alternative.
In midfield, Pochettino will want lots of energy and running. That should suit Carlos Baleba well once he’s fully fit. Captain Bruno Fernandes will likely keep his spot too, with Pochettino hoping to help him regain the form that won him the Premier League Player of the Season award.
On the wings, Pochettino may trust Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha as starters, with Shea Lacey and Amad Diallo providing good backup.
Up front, United were linked with Fulham’s Josh King, a 19-year-old recently called up to the England senior team. Pochettino helped develop young talents like Dele Alli at Spurs and may see similar promise in King, giving him a chance to grow even more.
Leading the attack, we expect Marcus Rashford to get a fresh start under Pochettino. Rashford began well after a loan spell at Barcelona last year but was sidelined with injury near the end of Carrick’s time. Back in 2022, Pochettino praised Rashford, saying he just needs confidence and belief to reach the top again. “He’s a great player,” the Argentine told Sky Sports. “The quality is there for him.”