Pochettino hopes for Sir Alex Ferguson talks before Man Utd debut

Mauricio Pochettino hopes to speak with Sir Alex Ferguson before beginning his Manchester United reign at Liverpool, describing the former manager as someone who represents his own values.

What Pochettino said about Sir Alex Ferguson

Asked by The Telegraph whether he had spoken to Ferguson since taking the job, Pochettino said: “Not yet, but for sure I will have the opportunity after Tuesday.”

He added: “I said many years ago and always I say the same: for me, Sir Alex Ferguson represents everything that I admire from a coach, a head coach, a man, a manager and I think he represents my values. I really admire him.

“For sure, from Tuesday, we will have the possibility to talk, if I will have time because it’s going to be very intense. But if there’s the possibility to talk, then of course I will do that.”

No conversation has been arranged. The pair go back a long way, though: Pochettino first had dinner with Ferguson in 2016, and they have stayed in touch since.

USA win Pochettino’s penultimate game

The comments came after the USA beat Haiti 6-0 in Miami on Saturday night in the first leg of their Concacaf Nations League quarter-final.

Christian Pulisic scored twice, with Auston Trusty, Julian Hall, Weston McKennie and Folarin Balogun also on target, Concacaf reported.

The emotion of the goodbye was clear on Friday, when Pochettino broke down in tears at his USMNT press conference.

What comes next for Pochettino at Man Utd

The second leg against Haiti is in Cincinnati on Tuesday night, local time. In the UK, it kicks off at midnight, as Tuesday turns into Wednesday.

United confirmed his appointment on Friday on a two-and-a-half-year contract, and the club says he officially starts on Wednesday 18 November.

His official start falls four days before the trip to Anfield, where United face Liverpool on Sunday 22 November at 4.30pm. According to The Telegraph, it is the first of 10 games in 39 days.

With so little time before that first game, any talk with Ferguson would have to fit around a very short preparation window.

For all the latest from the top flight, head to our Premier League hub.

Pochettino and Sir Alex Ferguson: FAQ

Has Pochettino spoken to Sir Alex Ferguson?
Not yet. He says he hopes to speak with him after the USA’s final game, if time allows.

When does Pochettino start at Man Utd?
He officially starts on Wednesday 18 November, after the USA’s second leg against Haiti.

What is Pochettino’s first game as Man Utd head coach?
Liverpool v Man Utd at Anfield on Sunday 22 November, with a 4.30pm kick-off.