Tearful Mauricio Pochettino admits Manchester United job too big to turn down

There were always going to be tears at Mauricio Pochettino’s press conference at US Soccer’s national training centre on Friday. It was only a matter of when. Pochettino is famously emotional, and nobody in attendance had to wait long for the waterworks – they came during his introductory remarks, as he thanked the US Soccer executives flanking him for the opportunity to guide the US men’s team. He grew emotional again as he addressed his impending departure for Manchester United, one announced just hours earlier.

“I think ,” Pochettino said, pausing to compose himself, “one of the most difficult decisions of our careers. Thank you guys. Thank you so much.”