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Pochettino speaks after missing out on Man Utd job to Ten Hag

Manchester United opted for Erik ten Hag as their new boss, with PSG coach Mauricio Pochettino having been heavily linked.

Pochettino speaks after missing out on Man Utd job to Ten Hag
JOHN THYSAFP

Mauricio Pochettino insists he has “always been fully committed to my mission” at every club he has coached at amid rumours he was disappointed to miss out on the Manchester United job.

The Paris Saint-Germain boss had long-since been considered a front-runner to take over from interim manager Ralf Rangnick, who has filled in at Old Trafford since Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was sacked in November.

Pochettino ignoring the links

However, Ajax coach Erik ten Hag was confirmed as the latest man to try and restore the good times at United, with the Dutchman taking over on a three-year deal from next season.

Reports in the British press suggest Pochettino was caught off guard by United’s decision, with the Argentinian said to have been researching Manchester as a city to live.

Speaking prior to PSG’s clash with Lens on Saturday, a game in which even a point would mathematically clinch the title, Pochettino was adamant he is committed to his role at Parc des Princes.

“All the rumours that have come out this year and throughout my career have never bothered me,” he said.

Mbappe and Pochettino
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Mbappe and PochettinoALBERT GEAREUTERS

“I never commented on them. I coached Espanyol, Southampton, Tottenham, today PSG, and I have always been fully committed to my mission.

“I work the same way by being focused on the objectives. If I paid attention to all the rumours, life would be different.”

United’s decision to overlook Pochettino means the former Tottenham boss’ future remains unclear. PSG are cantering towards the Ligue 1 title but were knocked out of the Champions League in a dramatic last-16 tie by Real Madrid.