Poch’s next job ‘in England or Spain’

MAURICIO Pochettino has suggested he is eyeing a return to management in either Spain or England following his sacking by Tottenham in November.

The Argentine guided Spurs to the Champions League final last May – but was replaced by Jose Mourinho just six months later after a disappointing start to the 2019-20 season.

“For me I was so lucky to start my career as a manager at Espanyol in Barcelona and then to come to the Premier League to learn a different language and culture, and I am a better person today,” said Pochettino, who has been tipped as a future United manager.

“I have more knowledge and had a great experience. The Premier League is the Premier League. Football was born here in England but I think LaLiga has amazing football and amazing coaches.

“Coaches like Gustavo (Poyet) and myself, we try and be in the best place, and England and Spain are the two best leagues in the world.”

Pochettino was recently linked with the Barcelona job, despite having said in 2017 he would never coach Espanyol’s Catalan rivals, but Quique Setien was installed as Ernesto Valverde’s replacement earlier this week.

“Barcelona, of course, are one of the greatest teams in the world,” Pochettino added. “Of course, now with the new manager, everyone is expecting him to continue the same philosophy.

“I think it’s a great opportunity for him to live his dream and it’s so amazing to follow what’s going to happen.”

M.E.N. Sport understands Pochettino is receptive to coaching United should the manager’s job become available.