Harry Kane: Man Utd would be getting a ‘fantastic manager’ in Pochettino

Harry Kane says Manchester United would be getting “a fantastic manager” in Mauricio Pochettino, his former Tottenham boss, who is closing in on the Old Trafford job.

The England captain was speaking at a press conference alongside Thomas Tuchel on Wednesday, as United move towards replacing Michael Carrick. Kane played under Pochettino for five and a half years at Spurs and says the Argentine shaped his career.

Harry Kane on Pochettino: the full quotes

Kane was asked about Pochettino’s likely move to Old Trafford while on England duty, as reported by Metro.

“Yeah, me and Mauricio obviously have a fantastic relationship. I think, again, I mentioned him as one of the coaches that had a big impact on my career and definitely my development.”

He explained that the help went far beyond tactics and training sessions.

“At that stage of my career I needed his guidance and the way he pushed me, not just on the pitch but off the pitch as well, was really, really helpful.”

Kane then gave his former boss a glowing reference for the United job.

“Obviously a fantastic coach, he’s managed the biggest clubs in the world. From my point of view, I can’t speak highly enough of him.

“We’ll have to wait and see what happens, but I know he’s a great guy but also a fantastic manager.”

Why Harry Kane owes so much to Pochettino

Kane broke through under Pochettino at Spurs in 2014-15, scoring 21 Premier League goals. After a six-game goalless run at the start of the next season, some critics called him a one-season wonder.

He proved them wrong. Kane went on to become the all-time record goalscorer for both Spurs and England. Together, he and Pochettino reached a League Cup final and the 2019 Champions League final.

That history is why his view will carry weight at Old Trafford. Few players know the Argentine better.

Where things stand with Carrick and Man Utd

United are 18th in the Premier League after Sunday’s 4-4 home draw with Aston Villa. They are also out of the Carabao Cup after throwing away a 2-0 lead to lose 3-2 at home to Brighton in September.

According to BBC Sport, Carrick is expected to leave within the next 48 hours. Chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox met Sir Jim Ratcliffe in Monaco on Wednesday and were expected to recommend that Carrick goes.

The Manchester Evening News reports that Carrick, who has been in charge for 32 games, may not be told until Thursday. United have not made an announcement about his future.

Pochettino ready for Old Trafford

Pochettino is head coach of the United States, and BBC Sport says he is ready to accept United’s offer. Metro reports that United already have an initial agreement with the 54-year-old, whose US contract has a $10m (£7.4m) buyout clause.

The aim is to have him in place for United’s next league game, against Liverpool on 22 November. We covered the latest on the deal earlier on Wednesday: Man Utd finalising Pochettino deal with Carrick set to be sacked. For how he might set the team up, read our Pochettino tactics analysis.

Kane set for England milestone

Kane has his own big moment this week. He is set to win his 126th cap against Croatia at Wembley on Thursday, taking him past Peter Shilton as England’s most capped man.

What it means for Man Utd

Pochettino would inherit a squad low on confidence. The i Paper reports that United have been outrun by almost every league opponent this season.

Kane’s words point to a coach who demands a lot but builds strong bonds with his players. Backing from England’s captain could help Pochettino win over a sceptical dressing room quickly.

For more news and fixtures, visit our Premier League hub.

FAQ

What did Harry Kane say about Pochettino?
Kane said Pochettino is “a great guy but also a fantastic manager” and that he “can’t speak highly enough of him”.

How long did Harry Kane play under Pochettino?
Around five and a half years at Tottenham, from 2014 until Pochettino left in November 2019.

When could Pochettino take charge of Man Utd?
United want him in place for their next Premier League game, against Liverpool on 22 November.