Mauricio Pochettino makes mind up on Man Utd and paves way for No.1 target to join club

Mauricio Pochettino is aiming to keep his job as manager of Paris Saint-Germain, despite reports linking him to the vacant Manchester United position.

Following PSG’s Champions League defeat to Real Madrid earlier this week, the former Tottenham manager is under severe criticism. Despite the signings of superstars such as Lionel Messi and Gianluigi Donnarumma, the French giants failed in Europe again with a 3-1 defeat at the Bernabeu.

PSG sporting director Leonardo refused to go any further than stating Pochettino’s contract would be extended until the end of the season. “Pochettino is still involved in the project this season. “It’s not the time to worry about it,” the Brazilian said after the defeat in Madrid.

Pochettino has been linked with the United job on numerous occasions, with the search for a long-term replacement to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer currently underway. Ralf Rangnick was appointed temporary CEO in November, but it is likely that he will be replaced for a long-term position.

Pochettino’s position on staying in Paris appears to smooth the way for Erik ten Hag, who, according to the Manchester Evening News, is the favored candidate. With the Ajax manager apparently dominating the battle for the United position, L’Equipe through GFFN reports that Pochettino wishes to remain at Parc des Princes.

The Argentine recently revealed his future, pleading for owners to rapidly synchronize their vision if they are to achieve success moving forward. He stated: “Aside from the sadness, giving PSG the opportunity to fight for their goals is always a huge challenge. And, yes, we believe we are capable.

“After then, it’s a matter of exchanges.” We will have to meet with the club to exchange information. To determine the most effective formula. To be able to see the vision, the future, the ideas, and the project.

“At the end of the season, we’ll go through everything.” We’ll see [whether I stay] at the end of the season. It will be up to the club to make the decision.

“We have to figure out the best approach to collaborate,” he added. “That includes recognizing the need of aligning our ideas, projects, and techniques. There are numerous questions that must be addressed in order for employees like us and a club like PSG to share comparable ideals and visions.”

Ajax, like PSG, were the victims of a Champions League shock, failing to go past Benfica in the round of 16 after winning every game in the group stage. But, in the midst of a battle for the Eredivisie crown with PSV, Ten Hag is reluctant to look beyond the present season.

“I’m concentrating on this season,” he remarked earlier this week. “The current squad is receiving all of the attention. I’m not thinking about the following season. I want to make the most of this season, as we still have a chance to win two trophies.”