Schneiderlin tips Mainoo, Baleba to shine under Pochettino at Man Utd
Former France midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin has named Kobbie Mainoo and Carlos Baleba as the two Manchester United players set to thrive under Mauricio Pochettino, who has reportedly reached a verbal agreement to replace Michael Carrick as manager. Schneiderlin, who played under Pochettino at Southampton and later at United, told ComeOn that the Argentine's attacking philosophy suits the club's young midfield duo.
Pochettino, currently head coach of the US men's national team, previously managed Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League. His expected arrival signals a shift toward high-pressing, front-foot football—Mainoo's progressive carrying and Baleba's box-to-box energy fit that profile perfectly. However, Pochettino won't arrive until United formally parts ways with Carrick, likely before the January transfer window.
The 54-year-old inherits a squad he cannot reshape until January, meaning he must adapt his system to existing personnel. United fans in Nigeria and globally should note: this remains a verbal agreement, not an official appointment. The club has not confirmed the move, and Pochettino's US Soccer contract situation adds complexity.
With Mainoo already breaking through and Baleba impressing at Brighton, Pochettino's track record developing young midfielders (Dele Alli, Harry Winks at Spurs) offers genuine optimism. Will Pochettino's arrival finally unlock Mainoo's full potential, or should United fans temper expectations until the January window brings reinforcements?