New Manchester United head coach Mauricio Pochettino has struggled to hold back tears while explaining his emotional decision to leave the United States men’s national team for the Premier League giants.

The Argentine tactician became visibly emotional during a farewell press conference on Friday, November 13, describing his departure from the USMNT as one of the most difficult decisions of his managerial career.

According to reports by The Guardian, ESPN and India Today, Pochettino admitted that leaving the United States was particularly painful because of the strong relationship he had built with the players, coaching staff and football federation.

The 54-year-old expressed gratitude to US Soccer officials, revealing that his time with the national team helped restore his motivation and belief in developing players capable of competing at the highest level.

However, the opportunity to take charge of Manchester United proved difficult to turn down, with the Argentine viewing the move as an opportunity to fulfil another major career ambition.

Manchester United confirmed his appointment following the dismissal of Michael Carrick, who left the club after a disappointing start to the season.

Pochettino will first oversee the United States’ two Nations League matches against Haiti before officially beginning his new role at Old Trafford on November 18.

The former Tottenham Hotspur, Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea manager now faces the huge task of rebuilding Manchester United and restoring the club’s position among England’s elite.

His first major test is expected to be a Premier League encounter against Liverpool on November 22.