Mauricio Pochettino REPORTEDLY DELIVERS A STUNNING ULTIMATUM TO INEOS BEFORE EVEN TAKING HIS FIRST TRAINING SESSION AT CARRINGTON
Mauricio Pochettino is reportedly preparing to make a major statement at Manchester United before even taking charge of his first training session, with claims that he has demanded INEOS terminate the contract of a senior first-team player before January.
The Argentine, who is expected to begin his new role on November 18 under a two-and-a-half-year agreement, allegedly told Sir Jim Ratcliffe that he would not tolerate players whose attitudes could damage the dressing-room culture. According to reports, Pochettino believes one highly paid star is setting a poor example for younger teammates and wants him removed if United are to avoid another disappointing campaign.
United’s situation makes the demand particularly significant. The club are reportedly 18th in the Premier League after collecting just eight points from their opening ten matches, leading to Michael Carrick’s dismissal.
Pochettino is said to have concerns about the team’s work rate, defensive commitment and mentality, especially the influence senior players have on emerging talents. However, removing a player earning more than £250,000 weekly could create serious financial complications for INEOS.
With Pochettino’s first session approaching, attention is turning to how the hierarchy will respond. His first major test comes against Liverpool at Anfield on November 22.
THE NEW UNITED BOSS APPEARS READY TO MAKE TOUGH DECISIONS FROM DAY ONE.
